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Leica 90mm f/2.8 Tele-Elmarit-M M-Mount Lens, Canada, Black, 6-Bit {E39} 11800
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$556.00
Leica 90mm f/2.8 Tele-Elmarit-M: the compact portrait tele for M shooters.
The 90mm focal length has long been the M-mount shooter's go-to for portraiture and street work at a comfortable distance, and the Tele-Elmarit-M f/2.8 delivers that reach in a compact, rangefinder-friendly package. Manufactured in Canada and coded with Leica's 6-bit system, this lens communicates focal length and lens type data directly to digital M bodies, enabling automatic EXIF tagging and lens-specific correction profiles without any manual input. The E39 filter thread keeps the front element small, which matters when you're carrying a rangefinder all day.
At f/2.8, there's enough subject separation for portrait work while retaining a depth of field that stays manageable on a rangefinder focusing system. The 6-bit encoding makes this a genuinely current-ready lens on any digital M body that reads the coding, giving a classic optical design a direct line to modern image processing. For a 90mm M-mount lens that balances physical discretion with a fast-enough aperture for available-light shooting, the Tele-Elmarit-M holds its own in the M system lineup.
Who It's For
Portrait photographers working with digital M bodies get automatic lens correction and EXIF data through the 6-bit encoding, removing a step from post-processing. Street photographers who want reach without bulk benefit from the compact form factor and E39 filter thread. Travel shooters find the 90mm field of view useful for candid work at a natural social distance. Film M users shooting available-light subjects will find f/2.8 gives a workable exposure advantage in lower light without the added size of a faster 90mm option.
Key Features
- 90mm focal length optimized for portraiture and rangefinder-distance work
- f/2.8 maximum aperture for subject separation and available-light shooting
- Leica M-mount with 6-bit encoding for automatic EXIF and lens corrections on digital bodies
- E39 filter thread keeps the front element compact and lightweight
- Manufactured in Canada per Leica specifications
FAQ
- What does the 6-bit encoding do on this lens?
- It communicates focal length and lens type data directly to digital M bodies, enabling automatic EXIF tagging and lens-specific correction profiles without manual input.
- Is the 90mm f/2.8 fast enough for low-light portraiture?
- At f/2.8, there's enough subject separation for portrait work while retaining manageable depth of field on a rangefinder focusing system. You can shoot available light, but it's not as forgiving as a faster 50mm.
- Does this 90mm work on film M bodies?
- It mounts to any Leica M-mount body. The 6-bit encoding is read only by digital M bodies; film bodies accept the lens mechanically without the automatic data transmission.
- What's the filter thread size?
- E39. The small filter thread keeps the front element compact, which matters when you're carrying a rangefinder all day.
- Where was this lens made?
- Leica manufactured it in Canada.
- How does 90mm compare to 75mm or 100mm for M-mount?
- The verified specs only cover this 90mm model. For comparisons across the M-mount lineup, consult those specific lenses' specifications.
- Will automatic lens corrections work on my M camera?
- Only if your digital M body reads 6-bit encoding. The lens will function on any M mount, but automatic EXIF tagging and correction profiles require a compatible digital body.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 90mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Mount | Leica M |
| Filter Thread | E39 |
| Color | Black |
| Encoding | 6-Bit |
| Country Of Manufacture | Canada |
| Product Code | 11,800 |
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 | Telephoto / Long |
| Max Focal Length | 90mm |
| Min Focal Length | 90mm |