Summar 50mm f2 with an all-chrome barrel. Serial number in the 280,000 range, manufactured in 1935. The Leitz code is SUMUS.
Pre-war uncoated version with a six-blade diaphragm. The aperture scale uses the continental sequence of f2, 2.2, 3.2, and so on. Distance scale in feet. It accepts A36 clamp-on filters, and the matching original Leitz hood is the SOOMP.
A classic Leica standard lens offering the rich bokeh and natural corner fall-off characteristic of the double-Gauss design. Wide open, it produces a soft and atmospheric rendering. Stopped down, it becomes sharp while retaining a gentle character.
The Summar evolved through several versions, beginning with the early so-called Hyottoko type, followed by the black-front version, and then this model, which was produced in the greatest numbers. Each barrel style was available in both nickel and chrome finishes. Toward the end of production, the Tropen-Summar was also introduced.
This example is the most common all-chrome collapsible version.
There are some small scratches and areas of exposed brass on the collapsible barrel, aperture ring, and other parts. However, there are no conspicuous deep scratches, and the overall exterior condition is quite respectable for a Summar.
A full overhaul was carried out in 2024 while the lens was with its previous owner. Both the aperture ring and helicoid remain exceptionally smooth, providing comfortable, stress-free operation. Rangefinder coupling is spot-on, and focus is also accurate.
The front element has only a few extremely faint cleaning marks, visible when held against a strong LED light, which should have virtually no effect on actual photographs. Otherwise, the glass is free from haze and fungus, with excellent clarity. The optical condition is exceptionally clean for a Summar.
The results of our test shots were also excellent. A Summar with glass in this condition can deliver remarkably fine images. Since so many examples are heavily worn, this is a particularly difficult lens to find in such well-preserved condition.
Third-party front and rear caps are included.
