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Leica 50mm f/2 Summicron-M (Type 4) M-Mount Lens, Black {E39} 11819
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$1,640.00
Leica's benchmark 50mm standard lens at f/2
The Summicron-M 50mm f/2 is the lens Leica has refined across generations into one of the most trusted standard focal lengths in rangefinder photography. At 50mm on a M-mount body, you get a field of view close to natural human perception, which rewards deliberate, instinctive shooting than heavy zooming and recomposing. The f/2 maximum aperture gives you enough light-gathering for dim interiors and evening work without the size and weight penalty of faster glass.
The 39mm filter thread keeps the front element compact, and the M-mount connection means this lens works natively across the full range of Leica M-series bodies, film or digital. Built in black finish, the profile stays low-key on the street. This is a lens with a long production history and a documented optical pedigree, photographers who've used it know exactly what to expect from its rendering, and that predictability has real value when you're building a working kit around a single focal length.
Who It's For
Street photographers who shoot M-series bodies will appreciate the 50mm angle of view for close, natural-feeling frames without drawing attention. Documentary and reportage shooters benefit from the f/2 aperture in available-light situations where flash is intrusive or prohibited. Portrait photographers working in tight spaces find the 50mm gives enough compression without requiring significant working distance. Film photographers running Leica M bodies get a compact, optically mature standard lens that pairs cleanly with both metered and unmetered shooting styles.
Key Features
- Fixed 50mm focal length for natural perspective framing
- f/2 maximum aperture balances light gathering with compact size
- Leica M-mount compatible with all M-series film and digital bodies
- 39mm filter thread keeps front element and overall profile compact
- Black matte finish for discreet street and documentary work
- Documented optical pedigree refined through multiple generations
FAQ
- What field of view does the 50mm give on digital M-series bodies?
- 50mm on any M-mount body, film or digital, renders a field of view close to human eye perspective, making it intuitive for street and documentary work without forced framing.
- Is this lens fast enough for low light?
- The f/2 aperture handles dim interiors and evening shooting without requiring faster glass, though it trades the speed of f/1.4 lenses for a more compact, lighter package.
- What filter size does the Summicron-M 50mm use?
- 39mm filters thread directly onto the front element, keeping the optical block compact and affordable for filter rotation.
- Does this lens work on older Leica M film bodies?
- Yes. M-mount is universal across Leica's rangefinder lineup, so this lens pairs with any M-series body from film cameras to current digital models.
- How does the black finish affect use?
- The matte black profile stays visually quiet on the street, a practical choice for photographers working in public without drawing attention.
- Why is this lens trusted by working photographers?
- Decades of production history and consistent optical rendering mean experienced users know exactly how this lens renders color, contrast, and bokeh across different scenes and film stocks.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 50mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Mount | Leica M |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Leica |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 39mm |
| Focus Type | Manual focus (only) |
| Lens Mount | Leica M |
| Lens Type | Standard / Normal |
| Max Focal Length | 50mm |
| Min Focal Length | 50mm |
