Summicron 35mm f2, chrome barrel. Commonly known as the 8-element Summicron. This is the version for the Leica M3, commonly referred to as the goggled version.
The Leitz product code was SAMWO, later changed to 11108. This example was made in Canada. Serial number in the 2.01 million range, manufactured in 1963.
The standard minimum focusing distance of the Leica M3 is 1m, but with this lens attached, focusing down to 0.7m is possible. E39 filter thread. The coating is mainly purple, with some orange tones. Body weight is 256g.
Born during the golden age of Leitz, the 8-element Summicron has a beautifully functional design with the unmistakable appeal of German industrial craftsmanship. The particularly elaborate goggled version makes full use of the magnificent viewfinder of the Leica M3, one of the finest achievements in rangefinder camera history, while converting the field of view to the 35mm bright frame. A remarkable amount of effort was devoted to maintaining rangefinder coupling. Mounted on an M3, its dignified and commanding appearance is truly where this lens comes into its own.
As for its rendering, it offers a gentle, soft look at full aperture. Stopped down slightly, the image gains a strong sense of depth and three-dimensionality. Stopped down further, it becomes sharp and precise while still retaining its characteristic softness. A true masterpiece lens.
The original hoods ITDOO and IROOA are compatible. Later hoods such as the 12585 and 12504 can also be used.
This is an item previously sold by our store. It has returned to us after six years and is now being offered for the third time. It was carefully used by its previous owner and remains in the same excellent condition as before.
The exterior is extremely clean, with almost no signs of use, including around the filter ring. It would pair beautifully even with a brand-new body.
A full overhaul, including the goggles, was carried out in 2019. Thanks to the careful servicing, the helicoid and aperture still operate smoothly. Rangefinder coupling is also spot-on, with the double image aligning perfectly and satisfyingly at infinity.
When held up to a strong LED light, the glass in the goggle unit shows the faintest trace of light haze, but it is unlikely to have any noticeable effect on visibility.
Around the edges of the middle element, there are extremely minor coating marks and shallow cleaning marks, but these should have no effect on image quality. The center of the glass is beautifully clear. Our test shots also produced very good results. You can enjoy images with the distinctive three-dimensional rendering, texture, color reproduction, and subtle glow that the 8-element lens is known for.
Sample images from a previous test are posted in our gallery. We would be pleased if you would take a look.
The original front and rear caps and genuine UVa filter are included.
