Elmar filter dating… box vs plastic case? Years for each?

[MrRom92]

Hi RFF, glad we’re back!

I was wondering if there was a certain year when the case for filters changed from the red cardboard box to the clear plastic case? I assume the red boxes were earlier. Or were they both available simultaneously?

Beyond that, is there any way to narrow down the date a particular filter was manufactured? I know the very early filters were just push-on, but once they added the little clamping screw I’m not sure if there are any differences in manufacture or the font/lettering that can help identify when the filter was made. Just for my own curiosity more than anything, I like to know when my stuff came from when shooting classic gear like this.

 

[Dralowid]

The size and style of the font does change through the ages. I think later, larger and the font itself simplifies. Someone must have worked out the dates but not I!

 

[MrRom92]

I would probably be happy if I could even narrow down the filter to whichever decade it was made in! I know the GMBH was added at some point in the 50’s, though I’m not sure when exactly. So anything without that marking is likely early 50’s at the latest.

 

[MrRom92]

My Leitz ny FIGAM is in a red box however my Wetzlar FEDOO is in the clear case