Leica LTM Elmar 50mm screw-in filter thread pitch and diameter

Leica M39 screw mount bodies/lenses
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MrRom92

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Hey everyone - I’ve been trying to do my homework, and most sources online state that the 50mm Elmar’s screw-in filter diameter is 19mm (and indeed heliopan refers to their filters for this lens as 19mm) however I’ve also found a few references that mention it being 18.5mm, and imply those stating “19mm” is actually just a case of rounding up. Now I’m not sure which is actually true!

Also, I’ve searched but haven’t been able to find anything regarding the thread pitch, so if anyone know what it is, that would be fantastic.


Ultimately I’d like to come up with a step-up solution to attach modern filters in a more common diameter without resorting to an overpriced SOOGZ. I’m quite happy to use the original Leitz A36 push-ons and feel that is part of “the experience”, though changing the aperture without a VOOLA is a pain, I’m used to it by this point… but there are only so many filters available, so having access to a wider selection while using these lenses wouldn’t be a bad thing
 
I had a look in my copy of van Hasbroeck but could not find any answer to your question. When I had an Elmar 50mm f3.5 I just used the slip on filters by Leica. I suspect that the thread pitch might be different on these lenses as they were not designed for screw in filters. If so you might have difficulty getting a filter or step up adapter to fit even if you know the correct diameter. I would also be a little surprised if you could find a step ring in 18.5 or 19mm.
In any event if you cannot get an answer here try over at Leica Forum. https://www.l-camera-forum.com/index.php
 
19mm is the size, but I don't know the thread pitch. There are sellers on ebay who offer new Heliopan in that size, and they claim to fit the Elmar, but the thread pitch is not specified. There are also vintage filters in that size, I think Walz offered them. Argus used that size too.

You might email Tim Rice at filterfind.net, he might know. He's got a bunch of 19mm listed here:

https://filterfind.net/19mm_filters.html
 
The VOOLA with the Elmar hood (FISON) and a screw in 19mm filter is the cleanest, most efficient way to go if you can get past the cost, and if you have any desire to easily and quickly change the aperture with a hood and filter on.




Anyway, I don’t know offhand what the thread pitch is, but every 19mm filter I have ever screwed in there has fit with no issues. Walz, Spiratone, whatever. And the Elmar was made to accept screw in filters, both contrast filters and close up filters like the ELPIKs. The Heliopans are probably the nicest, but pricey. I made a selection of my own rather than buy the Heliopans. Took some scratched Leitz close up filters which can be had pretty cheaply, and cut my own glass out of spare modern-ish filters and used that in the ELPIK rims. Nice results, though spending $40 for the Heliopans might be easier.
 
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Thanks for the responses everyone - I’ll operate under the assumption that 19mm is correct considering that is how the thread size is referred to by most.

I ask because I may have actually found a potential source for an incredibly cheap step up that would actually fit the Elmar’s screw-in threads. Could be a real gamechanger considering how many options for filters this opens up. Like I said, I love the A36 filters, they’re period-correct and there’s enough options for most typical needs. I shoot nearly all my B&W with a FIGAM. But good luck finding an A36 star effect filter, pro-mist, 85B, or sodium light filter… that’s just off the top of my head, the list goes on…

The only question is whether I order the male thread with a pitch of .5mm or .75mm. I will try to do some more digging online and maybe ask some of the individuals mentioned, but in the meantime if anyone knows the answer please do share... once we know the pitch then I’d be more than glad to place an order and report back on my findings.
 
Update: so, this thing exists
http://www.camera-filters.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=765&products_id=7833

It’s the only step up filter I’ve ever seen for a 19mm thread. I’m a little surprised it showed up! I’m sure if people knew about these they probably wouldn’t drop $100 on a SOOGZ

Is it elegant, no, but... it works. right now I have this 19->37 with a 37->52, 52->55 and a 55mm Hoya Star-Six, a filter you’d can’t traditionally get for this lens in either the clamp-on or screw-in variety

Remains to be seen if there is any vignetting with this many step-up rings, I’m guessing the 35mm Elmar is a no... but I can at least test it on the 50mm
 
Vignetting might not be a problem with that assemblage, just getting a proper star effect. It is moving the filter some distance away from the front of the lens.


PF
 
farlymac said:
Vignetting might not be a problem with that assemblage, just getting a proper star effect. It is moving the filter some distance away from the front of the lens.


PF
Click to expand...

That is true. I ended up not taking any exposures with the star filter, but I did remove it and install a 52mm CPL, and then on that, - 52->55 step-up and a 55mm red filter. This should be a pretty decent torture test to see if there is any “tunnel effect” by having the last filter so far from the front element. Will take a shot when the sun’s out in the morning…
 
Beemermark said:
A little off topic but does the 50mm Fed also take 19mm filters?
Click to expand...

Yes but...

I've just taken the screw-in filter from a Leica Elmar and put it into a FED 10 lens and they fit perfectly. The Leica filter is the type G - I think. To make certain, it's the one in this photo:-

Leitz%20filter-XL.jpg


I had the usual fun and games looking for the code etc. FWIW the green filter in my picture only appeared in 1933 and was available as a special order for cameras below 9500. It looks a though this type appeared in yellow in 1931 but as usual with Leica small bits are seldom described in detail and baffle me...

It also says it fits both the 3,5 and 5cm Elmars.

Regards, David

PS So I have stopped swearing at my one and thinking it was cross threaded in the 1926 camera.
 
All part of the service.

Beware of these filters that fit but hide the aperture lever:-

19mm%20Filters%20on%20Leicas%202-XL.jpg


Filters, hoods and just a cap can cost more that the camera at times, if that makes it any easier ;-)

Especially if you add an instruction manual to the package. I am thinking of my Contax II...

Regards, David
 
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