Leica Summaron 35mm f2.8

Summaron LTM

For a clinically sharp high contrast image, the modern Summicron ASPH is a good choice, however the Summaron of the 50's and 60's offers a different rendering of reality, it offers a unique image tone.

Front image of M2 with Summaron 35mm f2.8

Above: Leica Summaron (LTM version) with IROOA hood mounted on an M2 rangefinder via bayonet adaptor, the classic combination.

Above: Sharp image and interesting tonal rendering (much like the 50mm DR Summicron) are marks of the Summaron 2.8.

Over the years the Summaron came in a wide range of versions, different apertures, glass and body combinations. The model pictured here is a deviation from the old screw LTM versions and a vision of things to come.

This model has the newer body but still retains the LTM mount for use on either earlier Barnack models or the later M cameras, it is part of a batch of 2000 produced in 1960, making it somewhat rare and collectable.

You can tell an original LTM version by its serial number, or by the close focus distance, original LTM have a close distance of 1 Meter whereas the M mount's have a close distance of 70cm.

As a majority of LTM 'Barnack' camera viewfinders do not have provisions for 35mm lens, it is best to use accessory external bright line finders such as the WEISU, or the later SBLOO which is much bigger, brighter and includes a parallax correction line.

Approximately 5289 of these LTM versions were produced compared to the 30,000+ of the M mount versions. When released the Summaron was considered a cheaper version of the then new Summicron. The Summicron was more likely to be used by professional press photographers, thus, it is easier to find a Summaron in mint condition where Summicrons in good condition of the same era are more difficult to come by.

M mount versions included both those specifically for the M3 with goggle (spectacles) which corrected the 50mm field to 35mm, and that for the M2 and other Ms that didn't include the corrective device.

Code for the LTM version is SIMOO 11106Ps ,for the M2 version SIMON 11306Y, and SIMWO 111o6Q for the boxed M3 version with specs googles and caps. Like other products of the time from the Leitz company the quality is absolutely phenomenal, even surpassing many Leica products of today for build quality.

Like many other Leica Lens, the filter is E39 and the most appropriate sun shade/hood is the IROOA (as pictured), however other hoods work just as well.