Leica Anastigmat 50mm f/3.5 RF-Coupled Conversion

Leica Anastigmat 50mm f/3.5 RF-Coupled Conversion

The Leica Anastigmat 50mm f/3.5 RF-Coupled Conversion is an exceptionally rare interchangeable version of the lens originally fixed to the earliest Leica I Model A cameras. Surviving LTM examples originated when Leitz converted an early camera to accept interchangeable, rangefinder-coupled screw-mount lenses.

The original Anastigmat was designed by Max Berek and uses five elements in three groups, including a cemented three-element rear group. It preceded the closely related Elmax and the later four-element Elmar. Contemporary collector literature describes relatively strong corner performance at wider apertures, combined with the lower overall contrast expected from an uncoated early optical system.

Mechanics and Compatibility

The converted lens has a collapsible nickel-finished barrel, Leica thread mount and mechanical rangefinder coupling. The conversion makes the lens usable on compatible LTM cameras, although its extreme rarity and historical value make careful mechanical inspection essential before practical use.

Exact dimensions, weight, filter fitting, diaphragm-blade count and minimum focusing distance have not been reliably documented for the surviving converted examples and remain Unknown.

History

The Leitz Anastigmat appeared on the earliest commercial Leica I Model A cameras around 1925. These lenses were permanently attached and were not originally sold as interchangeable optics. The Anastigmat was followed by the five-element Elmax and subsequently by the less costly four-element Elmar.

A small number of early Leica I cameras were later factory-upgraded by Leitz. During these conversions, their original Anastigmat or Elmax lenses could be installed in rangefinder-coupled M39 screw mounts. Leitz Auction documents an original converted Anastigmat from the early Leica I camera range, identifying it as a five-element lens in a coupled M39 mount.

Collector Notes

A converted lens must be distinguished from the permanently mounted Anastigmat on an unmodified Leica I Model A and from later replicas or modern Anastigmat commemorative lenses. Collectors should verify the engraving, optical cell, rangefinder cam, focusing mount and evidence of a genuine Leitz factory conversion.

Tiranty was a French Leica sales agent and distributor. A Tiranty case, dealer engraving or Tiranty provenance does not make the optic a separately manufactured Tiranty lens. Such information belongs in listing or provenance metadata unless an independently documented Tiranty-branded lens is found.