A Modern Tribute to a Military Icon

Leica has unveiled the Summicron-M 66 f/2, a contemporary reimagining of the ultra-rare Elcan 66mm f/2. This specialized lens, originally crafted in the late 1960s by the renowned optical engineer Dr. Walter Mandler for the US Navy, has long been a subject of fascination for collectors.


Historical Origins and Rare Design

The original Elcan lens was created for covert reconnaissance missions. The US Navy required a compact solution that provided superior resolution, leading to the unique selection of the 66mm focal length. This specific length was chosen to achieve an optimal balance between size, contrast, and image sharpness. It is believed that these lenses were primarily paired with the military-grade Leica KE-7A, a variant of the M4 model. Given that only about 200 of the original lenses were manufactured, this remains one of the most elusive pieces of equipment in the history of the Leica M-System.


Optical Performance and Precision

The updated Summicron-M 66 f/2 bridges the gap between historical heritage and modern optical standards. Leica notes that the lens offers:

  • Distinctive Bokeh: Soft, aesthetically pleasing out-of-focus areas characteristic of the brand’s Classic Line.
  • High Contrast: Maintains the visual depth associated with premium Leica glass.
  • Fine Detail: Exceptional resolution when stopped down, honoring the legacy of the original design.

The 66mm focal length serves as a bridge between a standard 50mm lens and classic portrait telephotos, providing a natural perspective with a touch of subtle image compression.


Mechanical Details and Collector Appeal

Leica has carefully preserved the tactile quirks of the original military design. The aperture ring operates in the reverse direction of standard modern M-series lenses, and the engravings are styled after the vintage equipment. As a limited-edition release, production is capped at just 660 individually numbered units.

Priced at £8,410, the lens became available on September 3 through authorized Leica retailers and official digital storefronts. Additionally, the very first production unit, serial number 001, is scheduled for auction in Wetzlar this November, marking a significant event for enthusiasts of the brand.