Nickel Elmar 5cm f3.5 without serial number. Distance scale in meters, full rotation type. Helicoid number 3. Commonly known as the Short Elmar. There are various lengths among Short Elmars, but this particular example has an especially short barrel. Every time I extend it, I find myself checking twice to make sure I have pulled it out all the way. Haha.
Although this is not what is generally referred to as the old Elmar, it is a New Elmar originally fitted to a Leica Model A manufactured around 1930, later factory-converted by Leitz at the time to Leica screw mount with rangefinder coupling.
It is of course a perfect match for black and nickel Barnack Leicas. Also, since it has no infinity lock pin, it is well suited for use on mirrorless cameras via an adapter. Now nearly 95 years old, this Leica lens is still very much ready for active use.
This is an item we previously sold, and it has now returned to us.
There are minor scuffs, some loss to the nickel plating, and other signs of use appropriate for its age, but there are no noticeable scratches, dents, or distortion to the nameplate.
Fully overhauled in 2024. Thanks to careful servicing, both the aperture and helicoid still operate smoothly. Focus is accurate, and the rangefinder coupling is spot-on.
The front element shows quite a number of cleaning marks. These may have some effect when shooting against strong light. The internal anti-reflection lacquer has been carefully repainted, so a more well-defined rendering can be expected.
Our test shots were very good. Please take a look at our Sample Gallery.
Original metal front and rear caps are included.
