Price check & opinion request: 1964 Leitz 50mm f/1.4 Summilux, chrome

[Biggles]

I know *nothing* about Summiluxae. Bugger-all. Never even had one in my hand. But someone trustworthy from outside the practicing rangefinder community is offering me one, if I'm interested. A sock-drawer find.

It's from 1964 (based on its serial number), chrome, German-made. No caps or hood. Decent user condition at least.

Are these old things any good? Were they at least single-coated around 1964? And, we have no idea of price. What's an approximate US-dollar value for such a lens in, say, Very Good condition, though possibly needing a de-fogging?

Any insights will be welcomed.

 

[Nick R.]

One of the best lenses ever made, imo. Multi-coated. Same optical formula was used from '62 to '94, that tells you something. Would have to see the glass or have it described better to give a price estimate.

 

[Gabriel M.A.]

I think the definition "very good condition" varies from person to person. Nick is right, one would have to see the glass or have it described better to have an estimate.

To give you an idea: I know of an immaculate "first version" Summilux in excellent condition, only one dent on the serial number; includes a coated Leica UVa filter, shade and caps. $899.

 

[peter_n]

I think that's a little expensive Gabriel. The lens is wonderful, old design as it is. As others have said one would need to know the condition. If the glass is perfect other than a little haze and it is offered for <=$600 I would seriously consider it I think.

 

[ray_g]

Igor camera has one in user cosmetic condition but clean glass, newly CLA'd for $690 or so, FWIW.

 

[Biggles]

Believe it or not, that's all the intel I needed. Thank you all.