Elmar 50mm f3.5, very early E39 version. Leica M mount with E39 filter thread. Leitz product code ELMAM.
Serial number in the 1,140,000 range, manufactured in 1954. Not only was this lens made in the very first year of the legendary Leica M3, but it is also one of approximately 3,000 examples produced in the very first batch. The red alignment dot on the mount is painted, and the helicoid distance scale is marked in feet.
This is the final evolution of the classic Elmar 50mm f3.5, whose history stretches back to the early Elmar fitted to the Leica Model A in 1926. It was later succeeded by the f2.8 version, which incorporated new types of optical glass.
The lens is fully coated, of course, and features an elaborate internal construction with three anti-reflection ribs inside the barrel to reduce stray light.
Although a relatively simple and conventional lens, it produces images full of vintage character. We would love to see it paired with an early single-hook ITOOY hood and an early Leica M3 double-stroke body with Buddha ears. A wonderful combination!
The lens shows some scuffs and shiny areas from use, but no dents or noticeable scratches. It would be a perfect match for a nicely aged early Leica M3!
Fully overhauled in September 2026. The aperture ring, helicoid, and collapsible barrel lock all operate smoothly. Rangefinder coupling is also spot on.
There is very slight coating deterioration, barely visible even under strong LED light, but it should have virtually no effect on image quality. No noticeable scratches or haze are present. Test shots also produced excellent results, showing the crisp, well-defined rendering characteristic of the classic Elmar 50mm f3.5.
Comes with a period-appropriate UVa filter and genuine front and rear caps.
