The Canada-made Leitz Tele-Elmarit 90mm f2.8. Following the early chrome-barrel version, this is an early black-barrel model finished in black chrome. It is a rare red-scale version, with the distance markings in feet engraved in red. The Leitz product code is 11800U. With a serial number in the 2.21 million range, it was manufactured in 1966. Incidentally, the Tele-Elmarit transitioned to yellow distance markings around this serial number range.
The red-scale version has a particularly sharp and handsome appearance, pairing beautifully with black-paint camera bodies. It delivers sharp images while retaining a pleasing degree of softness, making it one of the most accomplished telephoto lenses in the celebrated Leitz lineup.
Despite being a telephoto lens, its overall length is comparable to that of a Summilux 50mm. Its well-balanced weight and moderate helicoid rotation allow for quick and comfortable shooting.
The compatible lens hood is the 12575, and the filter size is E39.
Previously sold by our shop, this lens has been carefully used by its owner and has now returned to us after seven years, still retaining its good condition.
The exterior shows some rubbing and paint loss to the black chrome finish in various areas, but there are no dents or impact marks.
A full overhaul was completed in 2019. Thanks to the thorough servicing, both the aperture ring and helicoid still operate exceptionally smoothly, and rangefinder coupling is spot on.
The inner elements show a very small amount of minor spot-like coating deterioration, but this should have virtually no effect on actual images. Otherwise, there are no cleaning marks or haze, and the glass is very clean. Its rendering is also superb, making this an ideal lens for practical use.
Enjoy the crisp appearance of the red scale markings together with the hard-boiled character created by its tastefully worn exterior.
An aftermarket front cap and a genuine rear cap are included.
