* RARE * Tele-Elmarit 180mm f2.8 for Visoflex
Often described as one of those lenses that makes people say, I didn’t even know such a lens existed, the Tele-Elmarit 180mm f2.8 is a truly rare piece. It is a telephoto lens designed for the Visoflex system. The serial number is in the 2.08 million range, dating it to 1965. Made in Germany. The distance scale is engraved in both feet and meters. The minimum focusing distance is 1.8 meters. The compatible filter is Series 8, used via the 14165 filter ring adapter. The lens features a preset diaphragm. The actual measured weight is 1122g.
It is said that only a single batch was produced, with an estimated total production of around 250 to 300 units, though figures vary depending on the source. All units were reportedly supplied exclusively to Leitz New York, and the lens never appeared in European Leitz catalogs, making it something of a mystery. As a result, the only known product code is the New York–specific 11910. Among Leitz lenses, this is regarded as one of the rarest.
This telephoto lens is equipped with a built-in hood and features a 3-group, 5-element optical construction. Judging from the optical diagram, the design bears a resemblance to the Zeiss Olympia Sonnar 180mm f2.8. Manufacturing is believed to have been carried out by Schneider. Another interesting point is that the optical design differs from that of the Tele-Elmarit-R 180mm f2.8, which was announced at Photokina in 1966, almost contemporaneously with this lens.
Overall, the item shows considerable signs of use, with paint sheen, small scratches, and areas of paint loss visible. It has a dignified, well-worn appearance that suggests it was actively used and well appreciated in its time.
It was overhauled in 2000 by the previous owner at Shin-Ebel Hegner Japan, and all functions are operating properly.
There are 4–5 extremely light cleaning marks on the front element, and minor balsam deterioration can be seen in the middle element, but these should have virtually no effect on actual shooting. We carried out test shots using our store demo Leica SL, and the performance was very good. The lens delivers beautiful rendering with pleasing bokeh, although shooting handheld with the first-generation SL, which lacks image stabilization, can be a bit challenging (laugh).
The 14165 filter adapter, a Series 8 filter, and the original front cap are included.
It is said that only a single batch was produced, with an estimated total production of around 250 to 300 units, though figures vary depending on the source. All units were reportedly supplied exclusively to Leitz New York, and the lens never appeared in European Leitz catalogs, making it something of a mystery. As a result, the only known product code is the New York–specific 11910. Among Leitz lenses, this is regarded as one of the rarest.
This telephoto lens is equipped with a built-in hood and features a 3-group, 5-element optical construction. Judging from the optical diagram, the design bears a resemblance to the Zeiss Olympia Sonnar 180mm f2.8. Manufacturing is believed to have been carried out by Schneider. Another interesting point is that the optical design differs from that of the Tele-Elmarit-R 180mm f2.8, which was announced at Photokina in 1966, almost contemporaneously with this lens.
Overall, the item shows considerable signs of use, with paint sheen, small scratches, and areas of paint loss visible. It has a dignified, well-worn appearance that suggests it was actively used and well appreciated in its time.
It was overhauled in 2000 by the previous owner at Shin-Ebel Hegner Japan, and all functions are operating properly.
There are 4–5 extremely light cleaning marks on the front element, and minor balsam deterioration can be seen in the middle element, but these should have virtually no effect on actual shooting. We carried out test shots using our store demo Leica SL, and the performance was very good. The lens delivers beautiful rendering with pleasing bokeh, although shooting handheld with the first-generation SL, which lacks image stabilization, can be a bit challenging (laugh).
The 14165 filter adapter, a Series 8 filter, and the original front cap are included.
- Cosmetic:
- 91%, C 並品, as pictures.
- Optic/glass:
- No haze, No fungus!
- Mechanical Problem:
- None
- Auction Includes:
- lens, series 8 filter, 14165 flter ring, caps.
International Buyers - Please Note
Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility.
Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.
- ** Image shots with Leica M3 + Visoflex III. They are not included in this sale **
- Shipping will be made from Chiba, Japan via EMS (Japan Post) / DHL within 1 day after payment confirmation.
*Except Sunday, Monday and public holiday in Japan. - Estimated delivery date is 2 - 7 days from shipment date (Not guaranteed).
- The customs charges are buyer’s responsibility.
For shipping request, please contact us in advance.
Attention: Shipping insurance covers only the declaration value. - 発送先が日本国内の場合、送料の一部を返金させていただきます。
- We accept the return of products with full refund when the following conditions apply.
- Please contact us within 30 days from the delivery date.
1. When the received item is not the same as your order.
2. When the condition of the received item is obviously different from our description.