First version Summilux 50/1.4?

[Justin Low]

I just won an auction (eBay # 330134792670) for a Summilux, but there seems to be a discrepancy in the serial number.

The lens is marked Summilux, but it's serial number is 1641xxx. According to multiple online sources, Summilux production started from 1645300 onwards.

Any ideas? Did Leica start earlier than recorded? Suggestions would be most appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Uwe_Nds]

Hi Justin,
Best way would be to contact Leica directly:
Schmidt Marketing (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Ms Sally Yeo
sallyyeo (at) schmidtmarketing, com

Best regards,
Uwe

 

[Avotius]

Thank goodness you paid so little for it, I saw one of these go on the bay last week for 2700 freaking dollars!!!!!!!

From what I could find out this lens with 1641 was from 1958. It could be a very early production or maybe one of those times leica jumped around with their SN's. My guess is that you have a very early production first version but I think you got a pretty decent price for a user lens, enjoy!

 

[Nick R.]

Pre 1958 serial numbers are not uncommon on the early 'luxes. I had one whose date put it as made in '57. The problem with my early chrome summilux was that it was heavy and softish wide open. I sold it and bought a summarit which I think is a better buy and a better lens optically.

 

[peter_n]

Another one went for around the same price the other day. My Hove book is at home & I'll look up the serial nr. range when I get there tonite. I wouldn't worry too much - I think you have a Summilux there... 🙂

 

[Ronald M]

Records are not always correct. Serials are assigned but not necessarily built all at the same time.

That is most definately an original `Lux made in 1959 to 1962 era. Enjoy.

 

[Justin Low]

Thanks for the replies guys! It's on it's way to me as we speak, and even better, I have a 50/1.5 Nokton on the way too, so I can do a comparison. 🙂

 

[Ororaro]

Thanks for the replies guys! It's on it's way to me as we speak, and even better, I have a 50/1.5 Nokton on the way too, so I can do a comparison. 🙂

A-ha! Let me tell you how it's gonna happen: The Nokton will beat the summilux on all aspects but you'll still end up selling it and keeping the 'lux.

 

[peter_n]

OK, here with the bible and the production period of this lens was 1959-1961, the lens code was SOOME or 11114, the serial nr. range was 1640601-1844000 and the total production was 13,000 bayonet and about 550 screw mount (Leica Pocket Book 7th ed., Hove 2002, p. 137).

 

[Justin Low]

Thanks for checking Peter! I appreciate it. I've heard that this lens is soft, but with nice bokeh; I'll see when I receive it. 🙂

 

[peter_n]

I would describe it as rendering pictures beautifully. 🙂 Mike Dixon over on PN has posted some stunning pictures taken with this lens.