Need help aging 35 Summicron (IV)

[35mmdelux]

I bought a 35 Summicron (IV) recently and can find no serial number whatsoever to determine its age. I suspect its probably from the early 1980s. Looks like its never been used.

Here is what I have in hopes that one of you experts can help determine age -- It has the 35 number on its side and I know its version IV (I've owned two previously). On the front it reads LEITZ LENS MADE IN CANADA SUMMICRON-M. 1:2/35. Generally, the serial number is engraved next to the focusing knob. Not this one. Your help in determining age is appreciated.

Thanks - Paul

 

[enasniearth]

summicron

summicron

on some lenses the serial number is engraved under the lens in the black chrome finish , the numbers are not filled with white paint and can be difficult to spot . this is from memory of one i had years ago .

 

[rodt16s]

Mine is engraved on the underside of the aperture ring. opposite the f4 stop. 301** also a convex focus tab, an early (IV).

 

[35mmdelux]

Were the early 35 Crons (IV) concave or convex focus tabs? Early being circa 1980.

 

[Re Konn]

I have an early Cron IV made in Canada with a convex (aka "tiger paw") tab.

 

[Erik van Straten]

I never saw an M-lens without a serial number. If you have one, it must be very rare.

Erik.

 

[John Elder]

What RodT16s said: number is small under the aperture ring

 

[nikon_sam]

I thought you were going to ask which sandpaper grit to use to age your lens...

 

[Re Konn]

Don't know if this will help you but I've created an animated gif to show the location of the serial no. on my Cron IV. Link here

 

[35mmdelux]

Re Konn,
Thanks for the gif. Found it! The most hidden serial number I've ever seen. Thanks all.

Paul

 

[Rico]

Were the early 35 Crons (IV) concave or convex focus tabs? Early being circa 1980.

Convex tab arrived around 1980. I believe user backlash killed that design feature a year later. 🙂 Personally, I like it and have it on my 'cron 35 v4. Convex tabs appeared (and disappeared) in the same way on the 'cron 50 and Elmarit 28.