Summarit 50mm f1.5, early version, Leica screw mount. Serial number in the 1.43 million range, made in 1956. The Leitz product code is SOOIA.

This lens is an improved version of the Schneider-designed Xenon 50mm f1.5, retaining its 7 elements in 5 groups construction. The use of new types of optical glass improved its performance. Before the introduction of the Summilux in 1961, it was the fastest large-aperture lens available for Leica cameras.

Its substantial, solidly built barrel gives it the classic old-lens appearance, and it looks equally at home on either a Barnack Leica or an M-series Leica.

The helicoid distance scale is in meters, which is somewhat unusual for a Summarit. The filter size is E41. As this is the early version, it can also accept the original slip-on filters, though we would hesitate to use one on a Summarit this clean 😅

The correct original hood is the rectangular XOONS.

Wide open, it produces a soft, dreamlike and refined rendering with a characteristic glow. Stop it down by one or two stops and both contrast and resolution increase noticeably, giving a much tighter rendering. Stop it down further and it transforms again, producing very sharp images with rich, dense tones. In recent years, its distinctly vintage rendering has been rediscovered, and the Summarit has become increasingly popular.

However, many Summarits suffer from poor glass condition, and it is not easy to find a truly satisfying example. We acquired this particular lens from a French collector during our buying trip to Europe in 2019.

It remains in original condition, with both the exterior and the glass exceptionally clean. It is also a lens to which our staff have become particularly attached.

This is an item previously sold by our shop. It was carefully used by the previous owner and has now returned to us.

Just as when we last sold it, the lens remains in very beautiful cosmetic condition with hardly any signs of use. There are only very slight traces of wear to the plating around the front and base of the lens, with no noticeable scratches. Although 70 years have passed since it was made, the plating still retains a beautiful shine. It is quite difficult to find an early Summarit in such fine condition.

A full overhaul was carried out in 2019. Thanks to the careful servicing, both the aperture ring and helicoid remain exceptionally smooth and pleasant to operate. It is free from the stiff or creaky feel sometimes encountered with Summarit lenses. Focus is accurate, and rangefinder coupling is also excellent.

The glass shows only very slight deterioration to the coating, which should have virtually no effect on actual photographs. Otherwise, there are no cleaning marks, haze, or fungus. For a Summarit retaining its original glass, it is exceptionally clean. The coating also remains fully intact across all surfaces. Our test shots also produced very good results.

Original front and rear caps and a leather case are included.

A hard-to-find example in this condition. Recommended for anyone looking for a particularly clean Summarit.