A rare all-black Hektor 73mm f1.9. The Leitz code is HEKON. Serial number in the 140,000 range. According to the serial number list, it dates from 1932, although some sources indicate that the all-black Hektor 7.3cm was produced in 1933 or 1934.

This example has a straight helicoid, distance scale in meters, and rangefinder coupling. The original compatible filters are 43mm slip-on or 39mm screw-in types.

The earliest Hektor 73mm was not rangefinder coupled. It was then changed to a rotating helicoid with rangefinder coupling, followed by this all-black version with a straight helicoid to accommodate accessories for Agfacolor photography. Later, the design returned once again to a rotating helicoid.

Among the straight-helicoid Hektors, this all-black version was the earliest type, followed by versions with a chrome helicoid. Of the four different barrel designs of the Hektor, this all-black version is the rarest.

Its appearance is full of weight, understated character, and beautifully aged vintage charm. Both its looks and rendering represent vintage photography at its finest.

Rare.

This is an item previously sold by us. It was carefully used by the previous owner and has now returned to our store. It remains in the same good condition as when we last sold it.

There is an engraved marking, WIII6 Nr77, on the base of the lens barrel, though its meaning is unknown. The helicoid shows some paint loss along the edges from use. There are also some scratches on the area that sits underneath when the lens is mounted on a camera, and overall signs of use are somewhat noticeable, but there are no dents or impact marks. The condition of the hood and cap matches that of the lens itself. It has a wonderfully sharp and purposeful appearance.

A full overhaul, including focus adjustment, was completed in 2025. Thanks to careful servicing, both the aperture ring and helicoid remain very smooth in operation.

The glass shows only very slight discoloration and faint cleaning marks on the front and middle elements, but it is quite clean for a Hektor. There are no traces of fungus or haze.

Test results were also excellent. The sample images are from the previous time we sold this lens, and we hope you will take a look at them in our Test Shoot Gallery. Rangefinder coupling accuracy is also very good even wide open, producing a delicate and beautiful rendering with a soft, veil-like atmosphere.

The original hood and front cap are included. The rear cap is made of Bakelite.