Schneider-Kreuznach Xenon 50mm f/2 (Collapsible)

Schneider-Kreuznach Xenon 50mm f/2 (Collapsible)

This Xenon is a rare factory Leica screw-mount standard lens in a collapsible, rangefinder-coupled barrel. Its six-element, four-group construction and f/2 aperture distinguish it from Schneider's slower compact lenses and from rigid Xenon variants.

Optical qualities

Rendering

The lens uses six elements in four groups. Its f/2 maximum aperture provides selective focus and practical low-light capability. As with other early coated lenses, contrast and flare resistance depend heavily on glass and coating condition.

Handling

The chrome barrel retracts for storage and focuses to approximately 1.2 metres. Rangefinder coupling supports normal focused use on compatible Leica screw-mount bodies. A filter size is not entered because a dependable specification for this exact factory version has not been confirmed.

History

Development and Launch

The documented factory M39 version dates to 1948 and was made by Schneider-Kreuznach as a native Leica-mount lens.

Production Evolution

A related collapsible Xenon was also supplied for the Gamma III, but its camera-specific execution and different focusing specification should not be used to overwrite this Leica M39 profile.

Special Editions/Variants

The chrome finish and 5cm engraving are documented. Finish or scale changes alone remain variants unless they coincide with a distinct mount or optical revision.

Collector Notes

Original coupled Leica screw-mount examples are rare. The native mount, collapsible mechanism and Schneider Xenon engraving are important for distinguishing them from adapted cells.