Dallmeyer Super-Six 2-inch 50.8mm f/1.9 (Rigid)

Dallmeyer Super-Six 2-inch 50.8mm f/1.9 (Rigid)

The rigid Super-Six 2-inch f/1.9 is a rare British standard lens in an original rangefinder-coupled Leica screw mount. Its fixed focusing barrel differs mechanically from collapsible Super-Six versions while retaining the same fast 2-inch optical identity.

Optical Qualities

The Super-Six uses six elements in four groups in a double-Gauss arrangement. Its 2-inch focal length equals approximately 50.8mm, giving a natural standard perspective on 35mm film. The f/1.9 aperture supports low-light work and shallow depth of field, while coated examples generally offer improved contrast over earlier uncoated production.

History

Dallmeyer produced the Super-Six family for several photographic and technical applications. Leitz auction documentation confirms an original rangefinder-coupled M39 version from the 1950s in a rigid focusing barrel. This profile is kept separate from the mechanically distinct collapsible Leica screw version.

Handling

The fixed barrel is ready for use without extending or locking a collapsible tube. Focusing is coupled to the camera rangefinder. Reliable minimum-focus, filter and diaphragm specifications for this exact rigid version are not consistently documented and are left open.

Compatibility

The documented factory version uses the Leica thread mount, also known as LTM or M39, and is rangefinder coupled. It mounts directly on compatible screw-mount cameras and can be adapted to Leica M with a suitable adapter.

Sources

• Leitz Photographica Auction, Dallmeyer Super-Six 1.9/2-inch in M39
• CameraWorth, Dallmeyer Super-Six auction records
• Mike Eckman, Ilford Witness and Super-Six optical construction