Hektor 50mm f2.5. Nickel finish. Serial number 120xxx. Manufactured in 1931. Leitz product code: HEKTOR.
A 3-group, 6-element design. Meter scale. Uncoated optics. The infinity lock button is the early pin-type version. Helicoid number 5. Although this lens has the full-circle helicoid, the rear side of the lock button has been secured with a screw so that the lens can be operated comfortably even when used with an adapter. It can, of course, be returned to original specification.
The slightly soft rendering near maximum aperture creates a wonderful atmosphere. The Hektor 5cm is notorious for examples with questionable focus accuracy, image formation, or rangefinder coupling, making it something of a dangerous classic. This particular lens, however, couples perfectly with the rangefinder, and our test shooting results were excellent. A very enjoyable lens to use in practice.
For lens protection, our original FB-19 filter for the Hektor 50mm f2.5 is also compatible with this lens.
This lens was previously sold by our shop. Carefully cherished and passed down among our regular customers, this is now, incredibly, its sixth time back on the market. A Hektor with strong homing instincts, complete with the Flashback pedigree.
A full overhaul was carried out in 2021. Thanks to meticulous servicing, it remains in excellent condition today. The nickel plating shows only minimal wear, making this an unusually beautiful example for a nickel Hektor.
The aperture and helicoid still retain a damped, silky smooth feel, making operation thoroughly enjoyable. Rangefinder coupling is spot on.
The lens shows a few extremely faint cleaning marks on the front element, along with slight glass yellowing visible only under strong LED light. Considering how heavily worn most surviving Hektors tend to be, it would be difficult to ask for much more.
A lens that is as rewarding to admire as it is to shoot with. We have also posted test shots from a previous time this lens was sold in our Photo Gallery, all taken wide open. We would be delighted if you take a look.
A bakelite front cap and black-painted rear cap, both genuine originals, are included.
