Summilux 50mm f1.4, first version, featuring a beautiful chrome finish. Affectionately known in Japan as the Noble Lady, or simply the 1st. Leitz product code SOOME, later changed to 11114. Serial number in the 1,750,000 range, manufactured in 1960. E43 filter thread. Compatible hoods include XOOIM, 12521G, and 12586. Purple-toned coating.
The early Summilux 50mm 1st, before the optical redesign, is a highly sought-after lens, cherished for its beautifully soft rendering at or near full aperture. Stop down just one stop, and the image becomes remarkably crisp and well-defined, with a wonderful sense of depth and three-dimensionality. A remarkably versatile lens offering a wide range of photographic expression.
Its elegant, beautifully crafted finish, which earned it the nickname Noble Lady, is a timeless and outstanding design. It pairs beautifully not only with the Leica M3 and M2 of its era, but also with modern digital bodies, blending in effortlessly. A truly all-around lens.
This lens 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.
The front edge of the barrel shows some very faint rubbing marks and slight shininess. There is also a very faint linear scratch near the base of the helicoid ring, in an inconspicuous area that only becomes visible when the lens is extended to its minimum focusing distance. Overall, the lens has a clean and very attractive appearance.
The lens has undergone a full overhaul twice at our shop, most recently in 2026. Thanks to the thorough servicing, both the aperture ring and helicoid operate exceptionally smoothly. Focusing accuracy is excellent, and rangefinder coupling is spot-on.
One tiny pinpoint of balsam separation, resembling a small air bubble, is visible in an internal lens element, but it should have virtually no effect on actual photographs. Otherwise, the glass is beautifully clear, with no noticeable cleaning marks or haze. The original coating remains intact throughout all lens surfaces.
The results of our actual shooting test were also excellent. Although taken during a previous sale, sample photos are available on our test photo gallery. We hope you will take a look.
The lens comes with a period-correct genuine Leitz XOOIM hood, a New York Leitz SL filter with Germany engraving, a hood cap, and a rear cap. The hood shows some signs of use. With this complete set of accessories, the lens is ready to take out and enjoy shooting right away!
