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LEICA ELMARIT 90mm f2.8 LENS - M MOUNT

LEICA ELMARIT 90mm f2.8 LENS - M MOUNT - 1965 - LOVELY!

A lovely example of this classic Leica fast portrait lens for your delectation, supplied complete with its original keeper!

This is a classic lens, one which I have not come across often, but which has always impressed. A much loved and VERY collectible lens, which lends itself to many genres, either on your Leica, or a compatible digital body, such as my own Olympus PEN F (Micro Four Thirds).

Informed by the serial number; 2087308, this is a 1965 model Elmarit, so 51 years old. It is amazing to think that when this lens took shape in Wetzlar, Harold Wilson was in his first twelve months as Prime Minister! In common with the very best Leica equipment of this vintage, defies the passage of time with a rare grace and everything operates as smoothly as silk. As with all Leica kit, this chunky little Elmarit feels as if hewn from solid rock.

The nickel finish is not damaged in any way, there are minor handling marks as you can see, but you really do have to look. All barrel markings are present and enjoy even and stark contrast. The head section easily detaches for use on a bellows, such as the superb Leica Bellows II which I have on offer in my other auctions.

Optics are good, although there is a mark on the front optic as you can see, as well as a little internal dust visible when the lens is held up to the daylight. Neither of these have effected any of my trial photos.

The focus ring turns easily, the aperture ring runs smoothly into each detent and can be set between stops, useful if you like that extra control afforded by the tiny fractional stops afforded by the incredible thirteen blinds which give this lens its impossibly circular aperture, enabling that wonderful, organic bokeh which Leica are so renowned for. The aperture is as smooth as silk, and there is no oil or rust on the blinds, just a tiny bit of the characteristic 'Leica rub' of the silver/grey finish on the blinds, hardly surprising after so many years!

Despite its 51 year vintage, it remains fully functional and is great fun to use. Most importantly, it produces great images! 90mm is nominally a Portrait lens, but you can just as easily use it as a compact Tele as I have with the lens mounted on my PEN F, something I can heartily recommend!

So there you have it, a very rare and highly appointed, Leica lens, which as you can see remains in lovely condition, despite it's antique status.

Built in a way which is frankly beyond modern understanding, looked after reasonably well this lens will easily last another 50 odd years and being Leica, when you, your children or grandchildren come to sell it on, you will like as not achieve much more for it than you paid here. Don't you just love photography?

Hopefully, the description and photos will answer any questions you may have, but please feel free to drop me an email if anything needs clarifying further.