Leica 500mm f/8 MR-Telyt-R (1980–1996)
A manual-focus reflex mirror lens for the Leica R system, produced in Japan with a compact 3-cam design.
Overview
This is a super telephoto prime lens made for the Leica R mount, manufactured from 1980 to 1996. Marketed as the Leica 500mm f/8 MR-Telyt-R, it was built around a mirror-based optical system, making it significantly shorter and lighter than a conventional 500mm lens. Though branded by Leica, it was produced by Minolta, as confirmed by Leica Wiki. It features a 3-cam mechanism, allowing compatibility with Leica R-series cameras for aperture communication. Only about 3,800 units were made, marking it as a rare but practical option for long-reach photography on the R system.
Specifications
| Focal length | 500mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/8 |
| Lens type | Reflex Mirror Lens |
| Mount | Leica R |
| Lens construction | 6 elements in 5 groups |
| Weight | 750g |
| Maximum diameter × length | ⌀87×121mm |
| Filter size | 77mm |
| Order no. | 11243 |
| LLC | 197 |
| Country of manufacture | Japan |
| Maximum format | 35mm full frame |
| Total production | < 3,800 lenses |
Design
The lens uses a mirror-based optical system and features a manual focus ring. It was built in a compact form with a 3-cam design, enabling aperture coupling with Leica R cameras. The entire unit was manufactured in Japan, consistent with Leica’s collaboration with Minolta during this period.
Market
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