An early Elmar 5cm f3.5 housed in a chrome barrel. Helicoid number 1. Distance scale in meters. Half-turn helicoid. Coated.
This is an early Elmar made with optical glass supplied by C.P. Goerz, which followed the Anastigmat and Elmax as the standard lens fitted to the early Leica Model A introduced in 1925. It was manufactured around 1926–1929.
This particular lens was later factory-converted by Leitz to a rangefinder-coupled Leica screw mount version, and the lens elements were also coated.
A36 clamp-on size. Compatible with the FISON hood and our original FB-07 hood for the Elmar 50mm, which allows aperture adjustment while attached.
Early Elmars in chrome barrels are quite rare. The nickel version has wonderful period character, but this chrome barrel pairs especially well with both black paint and chrome Leica bodies. With the added benefit of coated optics, this is a particularly appealing example for the discerning Leica enthusiast.
This is an item previously sold by our shop. It was carefully used by the previous owner and has now returned to us due to a change in their camera equipment.
Its condition remains just as good as when we last sold it, with beautiful, bright chrome plating throughout the barrel. As is common with collapsible lenses, there are some light rub marks on the collapsible section, but there are no noticeable scratches on the name ring, base, or mount surface. Overall, it is in exceptionally clean condition.
A full overhaul was completed in 2026. Both the aperture ring and helicoid operate very smoothly, with a pleasant, refined feel. Rangefinder coupling is excellent, and focus is accurate. The matte anti-reflection lacquer inside the barrel has also been carefully reapplied, which should help produce slightly richer, more contrasty images.
The glass shows a few very light cleaning marks on the front and rear elements, along with some minor coating deterioration, but these should have virtually no effect on image quality. Our test shooting results were also excellent.
Comes with a rare genuine flat-type front cap and a rear cap.
