Angénieux Type Z2 50mm f/2.9 (Collapsible)

Angénieux Type Z2 50mm f/2.9 (Collapsible)

The Angénieux Type Z2 50mm f/2.9 is a rare original Leica screw-mount normal lens from the early postwar period. This profile covers the factory LTM version with its collapsible barrel and rangefinder coupling, not later conversions of loose Z2 lens heads.

Optical qualities

Rendering

The three-element, three-group triplet keeps the optical construction exceptionally simple. Published formal testing is scarce, so the Z2 is best documented as a historically important character optic rather than assigned modern performance claims. Its 50mm focal length gives a natural field of view, while the f/2.9 aperture is practical for daylight photography.

Handling

The barrel retracts for transport and extends for use. A documented original example focuses to 1m and couples to the Leica rangefinder.

History

Development and Launch

Flashback Camera dates an original factory LTM example to 1948 and identifies it as a Type Z2 triplet, probably supplied for the Italian Gamma III Leica-copy camera. Arsenal Photo independently documents a rare original Leica M39 version.

Production Evolution

Type Z2 optics also appeared in Rectaflex and other applications. Those mounts, and modern conversions of separate lens heads, should not be mistaken for this factory collapsible LTM version.

Special Editions/Variants

This profile records the black-and-silver collapsible LTM finish. No separate factory model number beyond Type Z2 is confirmed.

Collector Notes

Original factory LTM examples are much scarcer than adapted Z2 lenses. Check that the collapsible focusing mount, rangefinder cam and engravings belong together before classifying an example.