An early Summilux 50mm f1.4 in beautiful chrome finish. Commonly known as the Lady, this is the 1st version. The Leitz product code is SOOME, later changed to 11114. Serial number is in the 1.78 million range. Made in 1960. Filter size is E43. Compatible hoods include XOOIM, 12521G, and 12586. The coating on this example shows amber and purple tones.
The pre-redesign Summilux 50mm 1st is a highly sought-after model, cherished for its soft and atmospheric rendering around wide open. Stop it down just one stop, and the image sharpens beautifully, producing a crisp, three-dimensional look. It is a truly versatile lens, offering a wide range of expression.
Its elegant and beautiful finish, which earned it the nickname Lady, pairs naturally not only with period M3 and M2 bodies, but also blends seamlessly with modern digital bodies. A timeless and exceptionally well-executed design. The all-rounder.
There is a slight shine to the plating at the front edge of the barrel, but otherwise there are no noticeable scratches or scuffs, and the exterior is very clean with minimal signs of use.
Fully overhauled in June 2026, including focus adjustment. Thanks to careful servicing, both the aperture and helicoid now operate beautifully. Rangefinder coupling is spot-on, and focusing accuracy is also excellent.
On the rear element, there are two very small fungus marks that can only just be seen when held up to a strong LED light. Around the middle element, there is extremely minor coating deterioration, and at the very outer edge of the middle element, there is a small area of balsam separation. None of these should have any practical effect on actual images. There are almost no cleaning marks, and the original coating remains intact.
The results of our test shoot were also very pleasing. You can fully enjoy the refined wide-open rendering characteristic of the first-version Summilux, affectionately known as the Noble Lady.
It comes complete with a period-correct genuine XOOIM hood, E43 UVa filter, hood cap, and rear cap. It is ready to take out and shoot with right away!
