Leica Unveils Summicron-M 66mm f/2, a Modern Tribute to a Cold War Spy Lens

Leica has unveiled the Summicron-M 66mm f/2, a contemporary take on the historic Elcan 66mm f/2, which Dr. Walter Mandler designed for the U.S. Navy in the late 1960s at Ernst Leitz Canada. With only around 200 of the original lenses produced, it stands as one of the rarest in the Leica M lineup. This new iteration preserves the original's optical design and body while enhancing it for today's standards. It includes a reversed aperture ring and a military-spec distance scale, featuring engravings that echo the classic model. The lens comprises six elements in five groups, offers an aperture range from f/2 to f/16, and has a nine-bladed diaphragm. Measuring about 60.1mm in length and 60mm in width, it weighs 456 grams. Leica emphasizes its soft bokeh and high contrast at full aperture, achieving optimal sharpness when stopped down. Limited to 660 units, each lens is engraved with a serial number, the optical calculation number B1047, and a unique 12-digit internal material number. The side of the lens displays '60' to signify the exact focal length of 66.0mm. Priced at $10,900, the lens is available starting today, with serial number 001 set to be auctioned at the Leitz Photographic Auction in Wetzlar this November. Photos captured with the lens by Mike Chudley are shared courtesy of Leica.