Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Kino-Plasmat 75mm f/1.5

Meyer-Optik Görlitz Kino-Plasmat 75mm f/1.5

The 75mm f/1.5 Kino-Plasmat is a very fast early portrait lens made in an original, rangefinder-coupled Leica screw mount. Its six-element, four-group construction and black-chrome barrel give it a clear identity within Hugo Meyer's prewar lens range.

Optical qualities

Rendering

The Kino-Plasmat formula uses six elements in four groups. At f/1.5 it provides very shallow depth of field and a strong separation between subject and background. Wide-open contrast, glow and field performance can vary considerably with optical condition and alignment.

Handling

The coupled M39 focusing mount reaches approximately 1 metre. Its fast aperture demands careful rangefinder calibration, especially at short distances. The substantial portrait-lens barrel is less compact than a conventional 50mm standard lens.

History

Development and Launch

The documented Leica M39 version dates to 1933 and carries period Hugo Meyer and Dr. Rudolph engraving. It represents a factory rangefinder application of the Kino-Plasmat design rather than a later cinema-lens conversion.

Production Evolution

Meter-scale and external finish details vary among surviving lenses. No optical revision is sufficiently established for a separate profile.

Special Editions/Variants

Black paint with a chrome focusing ring is documented. Engraving variants remain within this profile unless a different factory mount or optical formula is proven.

Collector Notes

Native coupling, correct barrel proportions and period maker engraving are important because Kino-Plasmat cells exist in many non-rangefinder mounts and are frequently adapted.