Zunow 100mm f/2

Zunow 100mm f/2

The Zunow 100mm f/2 is a rare 1950s portrait telephoto made in an original, rangefinder-coupled Leica thread mount. Its six-element, three-group optical design combines an f/2 maximum aperture with a 1.1 m minimum focus distance.

Optical qualities

Rendering

The fast 100mm specification provides strong subject separation and compressed perspective. The six-element, three-group construction is associated with smooth transition from focus to blur, while contrast and edge definition improve when stopped down. Optical condition can materially affect results in surviving examples.

Handling

The coupled LTM barrel focuses to 1.1 m and accepts 58 mm filters. Its long telephoto body is finished primarily in black with a silver mounting section. Reliable exterior dimensions and diaphragm-blade count have not been confirmed, so those fields remain blank.

History

Development and Launch

Reference catalogues date the Leica screw version to 1956. Surviving auction examples are documented from the 1950s and confirm native rangefinder coupling rather than a later workshop conversion.

Production Evolution

The 100mm f/2 was part of Zunow’s small range of fast lenses for rangefinder systems. It is independent from the better-known 50mm f/1.1 models and should not be grouped with them.

Special Editions/Variants

Minor engraving and distance-scale variations may occur. No separate optical generations have been established for the Leica thread version.

Collector Notes

Original LTM construction, coupling and the 2/10cm engraving are the main identification points. The lens is exceptionally scarce, so mount originality and internal glass condition require careful verification.