Leica 135/2.8 Elmarit (1970–1996)
A telephoto prime lens for Leica rangefinder and SLR systems, produced in both M and R mounts
Overview
The Leica 135/2.8 Elmarit is a telephoto prime lens for Leica cameras, sold in both M and R mounts. It went through several versions. The M-mount version was made from 1976 to 1996 and the R-mount version from 1970 to 1992. Later versions got a larger frameline, which makes composing easier. One reviewer compared it with the Contax Sonnar 135/2.8, Pentax K 135/2.5 and Meyer 135/2.8, but no specific performance opinion was recorded. The M2 version is more common than the M3 'eyes' version, at about 2:1.
Specifications
| Focal length | 135 mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/2.8 |
| Aperture range | f/2.8 – f/22 |
| Aperture blades | 8 |
| Mount | Leica M-bayonet (M version), R-mount (R version) |
| Weight | 730 g – 860 g depending on version |
| Dimensions | ⌀66–67 mm x 93–120 mm depending on version |
| Focus type | Manual focus only |
| Format compatibility | Full frame |
Design
On the M version, the optical cell unscrews for use with the Visoflex focusing adapter 16464. The later version has a larger frameline, so the lens is easier to see in the viewfinder. There is no weather sealing.
Context
The Leica 135/2.8 Elmarit was made alongside other high-grade 135mm lenses of its era, including the Contax Sonnar 135/2.8 and Meyer 135/2.8. It came in M and R mounts, for Leica's rangefinder and SLR systems. The M-mount version was built in lower volume, with fewer than 9,850 units made. Over 50,510 R-mount versions were manufactured.
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