Elmar 50mm f/3.5 with a nickel-finished barrel. This is the New Elmar from the era of the Leica DII and DIII, with rangefinder coupling.
The Leitz product code is ELMAR. Serial number in the 170,000 range, dating from 1933. Uncoated. The helicoid is the half-turn type, with distance scale in meters. Helicoid number 7. The optical construction remains unchanged from the earlier Elmar, with 4 elements in 3 groups.
The quintessential standard lens that helped lay the foundation for Leica’s reputation today. Even more than 90 years after it was made, its value as a photographic lens has not faded. The fact that it remains fully capable of active use today is a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of Leitz. With an L/M adapter, it can also be enjoyed on modern digital M cameras. Choosing a camera from a different generation to pair with it is part of the fun.
In addition to its reliable rendering and the gentle color rendition characteristic of an uncoated lens, the subtle glow of the nickel finish and its remarkably compact, lightweight construction, something difficult to find in modern lenses, are also part of its appeal.
The correct hood is the FISON. Our own FB-07 hood for the Elmar, featuring a built-in aperture control, can also be used.
This item was previously sold by our shop and has now returned to us after being carefully used by its owner. This will be the third time we have offered it for sale.
There are some fine rub marks on the barrel, but no dents or noticeable scratches. It has the attractive appearance of a lens that has been carefully used over the years, while the nickel plating still retains a beautiful shine. The black paint around the lens edges and the engravings on the name ring remain crisp and clean.
It remains in the same excellent condition as when it received a full overhaul in 2024 before our previous sale. The helicoid operates smoothly with no stress whatsoever. Rangefinder coupling is accurate, and focus is excellent. The internal anti-reflection lacquer has also been carefully reapplied, promising good contrast and well-defined rendering.
The front element has a few light cleaning marks, and some discoloration is visible on both the front and rear elements, but these should have virtually no effect on image quality.
Test shots also produced very good results. A great example to enjoy using right away.
