Collapsible Summicron 50mm f2. Leica M mount. Leitz product code SOOIC-M. Serial number in the 1,150,000 range, manufactured in 1954, the memorable year when the Leica M3 was introduced. A perfect match for an early M3. Feet distance scale. E39 filter thread.
The Summicron is one of Leitz's classic high-speed lenses. Following the Summar and Summitar, it was introduced as the third generation of Leitz's fast standard lenses. Its outstanding resolving power caused a sensation in the photographic industry at the time. Together with the subsequent debut of the Leica M3, it played a major role in ushering in the golden age of Leitz. This lens marked the beginning of the Summicron series, which remains at the heart of the Leica lens lineup to this day.
Although the collapsible Summicron was produced in fairly large numbers, many examples have damaged glass due to cleaning marks or deterioration of the internal elements. As a result, examples capable of delivering the lens's original optical performance are becoming increasingly difficult to find. This particular lens has glass in exceptionally good condition.
This lens was previously sold by our shop and has now returned to us after seven years. Carefully used by its previous owner, it remains in the same beautiful condition as when we last sold it. There are only very minor signs of use, with little wear on the collapsible barrel. The shiny matte bead-blasted chrome finish, characteristic of early examples, also has a lovely appearance.
To ensure the lens is in excellent working condition for its return to our shop after seven years, we performed another full overhaul in October 2026. Both the aperture ring and helicoid operate with a beautifully smooth, well-lubricated feel. Rangefinder coupling is also spot-on.
It is quite rare to find a collapsible Summicron with its original coating well preserved on all glass surfaces. Many examples have lost some of their coating over the years, making this lens particularly appealing for its well-preserved original condition. One of the internal elements shows very slight coating deterioration, barely visible even under a strong LED light, but it should have virtually no effect on actual images.
We have posted sample images from our previous sale in our Test Shoot Gallery. The resolving power is astonishing for a lens manufactured 72 years ago!
Comes with a UVa filter and genuine Leitz front and rear caps. The rear cap is a later type.
