Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 Type 2

Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 Type 2

The Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 Type 2 is the second mechanical version of Walter Mandler’s spherical f/1 Noctilux design. It replaced the original E58 version with a larger E60 filter thread while retaining the same seven-element, six-group optical construction, one-metre minimum focusing distance and Leica M rangefinder coupling [1] [2].

Type 2 is identified by its E60 filter thread and detachable Leica 12539 lens hood. Documented collector references place it between serial numbers 2919657 and 3220708 [3]. It retained Leica product code 11821, which was shared with Types 1 and 3.

This version should be kept separate from Type 1, which uses E58 filters and hood 12519, and from Type 3, which uses the later clamp-on 12544 hood. It is also separate from Type 4, which introduced product code 11822 and an integrated telescoping hood.

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Optical qualities

Rendering

The Type 2 uses the same optical design as the other Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 versions. Leica describes the f/1 Noctilux as using extremely high-refractive-index glass to achieve strong performance without aspherical elements.

Wide open, the lens is known for pronounced subject separation, smooth tonal transitions and a distinctive rendering that combines central definition with softer peripheral detail. Its look is generally more expressive and less clinically corrected than later aspherical Noctilux designs.

Sharpness

The lens was designed to be usable at its full f/1 aperture. Leica described the f/1 Noctilux as providing even resolution, dimensional detail reproduction and nuanced colour at maximum aperture.

Practical sharpness depends heavily on accurate rangefinder calibration. At one metre and f/1, even a small coupling error can move the plane of focus away from the intended subject.

Contrast and color

The lens uses coated spherical elements and high-index optical glass. Contrast is moderate by modern standards but can be strong in the central image when the lens is clean and accurately focused.

Internal haze, coating damage and flare have a significant effect on surviving examples. A correct 12539 hood is useful when shooting against strong light.

Bokeh and transitions

The 50mm focal length and f/1 maximum aperture provide very shallow depth of field at close and medium distances. Out-of-focus areas can appear smooth and painterly, although bright highlights and complex backgrounds may show more structure than with modern corrected lenses.

Distortion and vignetting

Vignetting is visible at f/1 and reduces when stopped down. This is part of the practical character of the lens rather than a difference unique to Type 2.

Handling

Type 2 accepts E60 filters and uses the detachable, vented Leica 12539 hood. It focuses from one metre to infinity and has half-stop aperture clicks through f/16.

Its approximately 580g weight and large front section make it noticeably front-heavy on compact M bodies. The removable hood allows a somewhat smaller carrying profile than the later Type 4.

Digital use

The lens was originally supplied without six-bit coding. Leica later listed product code 11821 among the lenses eligible for retrofitted six-bit coding [4]. A coded copy should still be identified as a retrofit rather than a separate factory version.

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History

Development and Launch

Leitz introduced the spherical Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 design in the mid-1970s as the successor to the hand-ground aspherical 50mm f/1.2. Walter Mandler developed the new lens at Leitz Canada using high-refractive-index glass rather than expensive aspherical surfaces.

Type 2 followed the original E58 barrel and introduced an E60 filter thread. Leica Classic identifies documented 1982 examples as the second version under product code 11821.

Production Evolution

Type 2 is generally identified by the serial range 2919657 to 3220708 and the detachable 12539 hood. The optical formula remained unchanged.

After serial 3220708, the Type 3 barrel adopted the clamp-on 12544 hood while retaining E60 filters and product code 11821.

Special Editions/Variants

No factory commemorative edition is specifically associated with Type 2.

Collector-relevant variations include Leitz versus Leica engraving, Canadian manufacturing markings, focusing-scale differences, six-bit coding added during later service and completeness with the original 12539 hood.

Collector Notes

Collectors should verify the E60 filter thread, 12539 hood fitting, serial number and product code. A Type 2 lens without its hood may be confused with Type 3 from limited photographs, so the hood attachment and serial number should both be checked.

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Special editions

No confirmed Type 2 factory special edition is documented.

Related versions include:

• Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 Type 1, E58, 11821.
• Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 Type 2, E60 with hood 12539, this entry.
• Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 Type 3, E60 with clamp-on hood 12544.
• Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 Type 4, E60 with integrated hood, 11822.
• Six-bit-coded Type 2 examples, later service modification only.

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Sources

• Leica Camera AG. 50 Years of the Leica Noctilux-Mleica-camera.com →
• Leica Camera Classic. Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1 V2 11821classic.leica-camera.com →
• Jo Geier. Leitz & Leica Noctilux 50mm Lensesjogeier.com →
• Leica Camera AG. List of 6-bit update capable M lenses for digital useleica-camera.com →
• Kamerastore. Leica 50mm f/1 Noctilux-M Type II 11821kamerastore.com →