28MM BAYONET MOUNT LENSES
It is important to note that Leica lenses had their focal lengths specified in millimeters from 1925 to 1928, in centimeters from 1928 to 1970, and again in millimeters from 1971 onwards360.
28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M (version 1)
Introduced in 1965244 to replace the 28mm f/5.6 Summaron, this lens (catalog number 11801235) features a design with nine elements360. The early versions were finished in chrome, while later models were available in both black and chrome360. The chrome-finished prototype (serial number 0000438) has a unique mounting design360.
The original Wetzlar model was replaced in 1966 by a version produced by Leitz Canada, which was constructed with eight elements360. The initial German version consists of nine elements and features a deeply protruding rear element group, which limits its compatibility with Leica cameras that have built-in metering133. The protruding rear elements interfere with the meter's acceptance angle, preventing it from accurately measuring the light reflected from the subject133.
It is also important to note that early 28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M lenses with serial numbers below 2411000 will not correctly activate the 28mm frame on the Leica M6, Leica M4-P, and Leica M4-2 camera bodies235.
Image quality was only adequate at full aperture, exhibiting significant curvature of field and flare due to coma towards the edges of the frame244. On the positive side, the non-retrofocus design was quite resistant to reflections caused by the sun, whether in or near the frame244. Due to the field curvature, the corners of an image were not fully sharp at infinity, even when using the smallest apertures244. Nonetheless, the majority of the frame fell within the depth of field at reasonable apertures244.
If large enlargements were planned, it was advisable to stop down beyond f/5.6244. The front flange was threaded for an E48 filter, and the clip-on hood could accommodate a Series VII filter if desired244.
The angle of view is 76 degrees361. The minimum distance is 70cm and the weight is 225 grams361.
The lens remained in catalog until 1972361. The serial numbers span from 2061501 to 2198100361.
Upgrade to Version 2
While Wetzlar-made 28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M lens can physically mount to the Leica M6, it does not allow for accurate metering133. The later Canadian model (with serial numbers above 2314921) offers slightly superior optics and features a rear element that protrudes only slightly, allowing it to be used with the CL or M5 camera bodies360. In the original documentation from Leitz, the transition from the first to the second version occurs at serial number 2,314,801, which was assigned in 1969361. This change was logical, as preparations for the Leica M5 were in progress, and this new camera required the updated Canadian design361. Meanwhile, the Leica M4 was still listed in the catalog but no longer in production, allowing it to continue using the first version of the lens361. As a result, the total production volume of this lens was quite low, with only about 3,200 units produced361.
28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M (version 2)
As mentioned above, this new version (catalog number 11801 for the black variant361) was introduced in 1969244. In the original documentation from Leitz, the transition from the first to the second version occurs at serial number 2314801, which was assigned in 1969361. This change was logical, as preparations for the Leica M5 were in progress, and this new camera required the updated Canadian design361.
This version, known as Version 2, features a steeply curving convex front surface with an angle of view of 76° and a focal length of 28mm. Note the prominent arc of the front element. Compared to the previous version, this lens has one less optical element133.
The second version was designed as a retrofocus lens specifically for the Leica M5. It was shortened at the rear to provide clearance for the M5’s swinging arm, which held the metering cell. The diameter of the new lens at the front remained nearly the same as that of its predecessor, and it continued to use the same hood and E48 (or Series VII) filter244.
Constructed with eight elements arranged in six groups, this lens benefited from advancements in technology that significantly improved image quality at maximum aperture, particularly in the corners of the frame. At f/4, objects at infinity in the corners were quite acceptably sharp, and the lens maintained excellent sharpness all the way to f/22, exhibiting less diffraction than the first design at that aperture244.
There were around 5000 lenses made361.
In late 1979, this lens was further improved in both optical quality and appearance360. The new 28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M (version 3) model introduced a redesigned mount, featuring the typical 1980s engraving of the focal length in yellow360.
28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M (version 3)
Introduced in 1979, the 28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M (version 3) lens features a completely new design based on advanced computation. With its large angle of view and excellent optical performance, even at full aperture of f/2.8, this lens occupies a unique position in photography. It consists of eight elements arranged in six groups and is coupled with the rangefinder, allowing for focus from infinity down to 0.7 meters. The designers placed a strong emphasis on ease of handling with this new lens, which is cataloged under the number 11804 for the black finish88. The serial numbers range from 2880201 to 3576533361.
This lens is a Canadian design featuring a retrofocus construction, but it utilizes a different optical prescription361. It has a redesigned mount with a focusing tab for easier adjustments, emphasizing its role as a prime reportage lens361. The lens represents a significant improvement over its predecessor and, in fact, set the standard for wide-angle lenses for many years361. While there were faster lenses available, none matched the quality of this one361. Its optimum aperture is f/4361. The lengthy production period suggests that this lens was competitive and that further advancements would require more accumulated knowledge361. Sales were impressive, totaling 17200 units361.
This new design was intended to produce cleaner and flare-free images at f/2.8244. It also offered better reflection qualities when shooting toward the sun244. However, it introduced considerable curvature of field, resulting in poor corner sharpness at infinity across all apertures244. Despite this, a 28mm f/2.8 lens on a rangefinder Leica is typically used for available light photography at close distances rather than for landscapes requiring stopped-down settings244. Most users regard this lens as excellent when used within its design capabilities244. The front flange was slightly enlarged to accommodate an E49 filter, and a new twist-on lens hood was introduced244. A later version of the same hood (catalog number 12536) included a cutout for easier use with the built-in 28mm finder frame of the M4-P camera, which debuted in 1981244.
The lens remained in the catalog until 1993361.
Special Editions
A special edition has been made for the anniversary “Leica 1913-1983”361.
28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M (version 4)
The combination of the latest glass types and improved retrofocus design allowed Leica to create a well-balanced lens in the 28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M of 1993244 (catalog number 11809 for the black anodized version)361.
This lens aims to address issues related to curvature and image quality at maximum aperture. Composed of eight elements arranged in seven groups, it maintains a flat field at all apertures, delivering exceptional image quality even when wide open. However, one slight drawback is the occurrence of flare and reflections when the lens is pointed toward the sun244.
The primary goal of this fourth redesign, now featuring Solms signature, was to improve image quality while reducing the physical dimensions361. These two demands are often contradictory, so it is a pleasant surprise that the advancements are clearly noticeable during actual photography361.
The front lens, with its unique plane surface, delivers sparkling clarity at full aperture, even in high-contrast situations361. Generally, this lens offers an improvement of one full stop compared to its predecessor361. A distinctive feature of this lens is its excellent correction of oblique sagittal rays, which enhances the rendition of fine gradations in small object areas361.
This outstanding lens captures very fine details in both deep shadows and highlights while maintaining crisp outlines in high-contrast conditions361. The 1993 version of the Elmarit-M 28mm exhibits many traits reminiscent of the classical era of Leica M lens design361. The ability to clearly reveal intricate textural details is a hallmark of many modern Leica M lenses361. In addition to its high overall contrast, the lens is effectively free from flare and veiling glare361.
The front flange of the lens is smaller than in previous designs and is compatible with an E46 filter and a clip-on hood244. There have been at least three versions of the hood244. These hoods, referred to as catalog numbers 11809, 12547, and 12588, each feature cutouts and their own rectangular caps244. The two latter hoods slightly intrude into the bottom of both metal and plastic brightline finder fields, but the cutouts facilitate viewing through the camera's finder frame244.
The minimum focusing distance is 70cm361.
The lens remained in the catalog until 2008361.
28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 1)
The first version of 28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH was introduced in 1998211. The catalog number for the black version is 11890 and 11894 for silver chrome version361.
This compact lens is ideal for travel photographers and photojournalists, as it covers the frequently used wide-angle focal lengths of 28mm and 35mm, as well as the standard 50mm. Despite being versatile, it is not a zoom lens; the 28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 1) can be set specifically to these three focal lengths211.
The original proposal for the zoom lens design for the M-camera included two focal lengths; however, the final version was enhanced to feature three selectable focal lengths: 28mm, 35mm, and 50mm361. The Tri-Elmar lens, designed by Lothar Kölsch, is a significant achievement in both optical and mechanical engineering, showcasing a complexity that is quite remarkable361.
As a true zoom lens, the Tri-Elmar alters the focal length of the optical system, thereby changing the magnification of the image361. Its design consists of two groups of lens elements. The front group also moves axially to adjust the distance setting361.
The mechanical engineering demands, handled by André de Winter, are exceptionally high361. Cams with different curves are used to mechanically compensate for the relative movement between the two lens cells and the film plane361. Transitioning from 50mm to 35mm and then from 50mm to 28mm requires the same distance on the focal-length setting ring, but the internal movements involved are quite different361. The shorter distances necessitate a steeper curve, resulting in varying forces that must be overcome361. These forces need to be carefully coordinated with the tensions of the frame actuating springs361.
28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 1) lens is compatible with Leica's classic M6 rangefinder. It delivers photographs rich in contrast and detail at all three focal lengths. The optical construction includes eight elements arranged in six groups; two of these elements have aspherical surfaces, and five are made from special high-index glass types211.
Users can select the focus, lens aperture, and focal length via three distinct adjustment rings. The focal-length adjustment ring includes noticeable click stops at the 28mm, 35mm, and 50mm settings, preventing accidental adjustments. The frame lines for the selected focal length are automatically reflected in the M6's viewfinder211.
28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 1) represents a milestone in lens design for the Leica M camera. According to Sonke Peters, the Leica M Product Manager, this lens is the most complex M lens ever created. It features the same eight elements arranged in six groups, including two aspherical surfaces. An additional adjustment ring allows users to select the focal length, alongside the traditional rings for focus and aperture. While it is not a zoom lens in the conventional sense, 28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 1) offers variable focal lengths reminiscent of convertible lenses from photography's early days212.
Each of the three focal lengths selected by the ring has a distinct detent, ensuring accurate selection. A clever mechanical adjustment was introduced to enable proper actuation of the 28mm frame lines; this involved cutting the frame-actuating cam on the lens mount in two. You might notice that the preview lever on the camera moves independently when you select a new focal length212.
The minimum focusing distance is 100cm361. The weight is 340 grams for the black version and 460 grams for silver chrome361.
Extremely compact, the 28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 1) lens was available at a suggested retail price of 2495 USD upon introduction211.
The serial number range spans from 37531261 to 3829350, with version 2 being introduced at some point within this range361.
28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 2)
The revised and improved 28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 2) was reintroduced at Photokina 2000234. The catalog number for the black version is 11625361.
The first version of the Tri-Elmar-M 1:4/28-35-50 mm ASPH. received some complaints regarding the somewhat unreliable lock of the 28mm position361. The second version features the same optical cell but offers improved ergonomics361. It includes a focusing tab and an enhanced mechanism for selecting focal lengths361.
The image quality of the lens is exceptional at all three focal lengths, even at full aperture361. Some distortion is noticeable at the 28mm position; however, it is nearly absent at the other focal lengths361.
The front diameter was reduced from 55mm to 49mm234. Additionally, the focus ring featured a finger tab, which greatly improved ergonomics by making it easier to differentiate between the focus ring and the focal length ring234.
A new universal polarizer for the M (catalog number 13356) has been introduced, which can accommodate several different filter sizes, including the newer lenses with built-in lens hoods212. The polarizer comes in a fitted leather case with adapter rings for E39 and E46 filter sizes, and a separate adapter for E49 size lenses is available212. Users can simply screw the adapter onto the lens and attach the polarizer to it212.
The minimum focusing distance is 100cm361.
Notably, the Tri-Elmar-M exemplifies the pinnacle of precision mechanical engineering and mounting361. Combined, both versions have sold over 10,000 units361.
28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 2) engraved "Leica HISTORICA 1975-2000."
This very special lens was created to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Leica Historica e.V. It features a unique engraving that reads "Leica HISTORICA 1975-2000." Only 75 pieces of this lens were produced, numbered 1 to 74, along with one piece numbered 150. The engraving is similar to that on the M6 model, which celebrated the 20th anniversary of Leica Historica e.V.236.
The chrome Tri-Elmar lens is particularly special, as only 575 lenses were manufactured, including the 75 with unique engraving. This chrome version weighs 460 grams, while the black version weighs only 340 grams. In addition to the distinctive engraving, the lens cap is also noteworthy; it is made from a heavy metal and features an engraving of the Leica logo236.
28-35-50mm f/4 Tri-Elmar-M ASPH (version 2) engraved "Leica HISTORICA 1975-2000., when paired with the Leica M6 “Leica HISTORICA” body and the 50mm f/2 Summicron lens, creates a special commemorative set for the anniversary236.
28mm f/2 Summicron-M ASPH
The 28mm f/2 Summicron-M ASPH lens was announced in 2000. This new high-speed wide-angle lens was eagerly anticipated by photojournalists and enthusiasts of low-light photography and was introduced at Photokina231. Thanks to the use of special glass types and an aspherical lens element, Leica's lens designers achieved improved optical performance231. Catalog number is 11604 for black and 11661 for silver chrome version made until 2012361.
The lens comprises nine elements arranged in six groups, including one aspherical surface, and supports a filter size of E46. It weighs 270 grams (without the lens hood)231. The minimum focusing distance is 70cm361. The lens has a lockable clip-on type lens hood361.
The 28mm f/2 Summicron-M ASPH is considered one of the crown jewels in Leica's lineup of lenses361. It is an exceptional optic that, after twelve years of production, has yet to be surpassed361. Leica's designers face two contrasting challenges when creating lenses for the M-system: ensuring the lens remains compact while achieving the highest possible image quality361.
The 28mm f/2 Summicron-M ASPH reflects the creativity of one of the younger designers in Leica's optical department, showcasing that innovation is a core inspiration for the current team361. The lens features an optical construction that includes one molded glass surface with an aspherical design, specifically on the front surface of the last element361.
Even at full aperture, this lens produces high-contrast imagery with sharp definition of extremely fine details across most of the image field361. Flare is well suppressed; however, a lens hood is recommended when light sources are near or in front of the lens361. Leica has also redesigned the front section where the lens hood attaches for improved handling, demonstrating the design team's commitment to enhancing usability361.
The overall performance of this lens suggests that it may represent a new standard for the Summicron family361. For some time, Leica has adopted a two-pronged approach in its range of wide-angle lenses by focusing on new Summilux (1:1.4) designs and new Elmar (1:3.4 and 1:3.8) designs, which resulted in less attention given to the Summicron series361. This trend, however, has changed with the introduction of this remarkable lens361.
The suggested retail price for the lens is 1995.00 USD, and deliveries are set to begin in February of 2001231. The production started at serial number 3900076361.
28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M ASPH (version 5)
The fifth version of 28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M (catalog number 11606361) was introduced in 2006 at Photokina277. The lens was designed to work equally well on analog and digital M’s277
The Elmarit-M lens is a remarkable piece of equipment: compact in size (30 mm x 52 mm) and delivering exceptional performance361. It offers impressive sharpness across the entire image area, from corner to corner, at all distances, making it appealing to a wide range of photographers361. The lens enjoys popularity and has been featured in various special edition cameras from Leica, with several versions produced using different materials for the mount361.
When we consider this design within the historical context of 28mm lenses, we find that it approaches the upper limits of useful definition and contrast, as seen in models like the fourth version of the Elmarit-M 2.8/28 and the Summicron-M 2/28 ASPH361. Once this level of quality is achieved, it becomes essential to focus on other important characteristics such as minimizing flare, distortion, and field curvature, all while maintaining solid overall sharpness. Leica manages this balancing act by varying the emphasis on these characteristics in their designs361.
In the case of the Elmarit-M 2.8/28 ASPH, Leica has prioritized compactness and high performance, requiring advanced optical engineering to achieve these goals361. This lens may be one of the first 28mm wide-angle lenses for rangefinder cameras to exhibit no distortion at all361. It serves as an excellent companion for the M8, often considered the ultimate digital snapshot camera, but it will undoubtedly complement many Leica rangefinder cameras as well361.
The weight of the lens is 180 grams361. It takes E39 size filters361. The minimum distance is 70cm and the angle of view is 76 degrees361. There are 8 elements in 6 groups, with one aspherical surface361. The serial numbers start at 3997621361.
28mm f/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH
28mm f/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH was first made available in 2014 as a special series of 100 in a silver finish to celebrate Leica's 100th anniversary306. In 2015, it was released as a regular production lens in a standard black anodized finish306.
At a focal length like 28mm, moving beyond f/2.8 significantly increases the demands on the optical designer306. Consequently, the 28mm f/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH is big and heavy306. There is a trade-off for the light-gathering capability of f/1.4 and its ability to creatively limit depth of field when desired306. There is notable intrusion into the bottom right-hand corner of the viewfinder, especially at close distances306. For accurate composition and framing, live view is extremely helpful306. The focusing action is smooth, and the click stops for the aperture are positively firm306.
The lens has a new style screw-in lens hood306.
The optical design consists of 10 elements, including 1 aspherical surface, arranged in 7 groups306. The click stops are adjustable to f/16 in half stops, and the focus range extends from 0.7m to infinity306. The smallest object field measures 526mm x 789mm with a ratio of 1:21.9, and it offers a horizontal angle of view of 65 degrees306. The filter size is E49, and the lens hood can be screw-mounted via an external thread306. In terms of dimensions, the lens has a length of 67mm (81mm when including the lens hood), a diameter of 61mm, and weighs 440g306.
28mm f/5.6 Summaron-M
The 28mm f/5.6 Summaron-M lens was introduced in 2017, with catalog number 11695312.
The key specifications include an angle of view of 75° diagonal, 65° horizontal, and 46° vertical312. It features 6 elements in 4 groups, with the entrance pupil positioned 2.4mm in front of the bayonet312. The focusing range extends from 1 meter to infinity, and the distance setting combined meter-increments for the smallest object field (for 35mm) is 80 x 120mm312. The largest reproduction ratio is 1:33.4, and the aperture setting is a prefix with click stops at full stops, with the smallest aperture specified as f/22312. The lens has 8 aperture blades and a filter thread of E34312. The length is approximately 18mm without the lens hood and 39mm with it, while the largest diameter without the lens hood is about 51mm312. The total weight is approximately 165g without the lens hood312.