Leica Summicron 2/5cm Yellow Coating Thorium Glass M39 - Rare Vintage Optic
The Leica Summicron 2/5cm M39 with yellow Thorium coating is among the rarest and most distinctive lenses from Leica's early history. The Thorium oxide coating gives this Summicron a unique rendering: warm tones on color film, strong contrast on black-and-white. This copy is in very good condition. The glass is very clean with only light cleaning marks, which are typical for this model as the Summicron 5cm is known for its particularly soft and sensitive lens surfaces. Aperture and focus ring operate smoothly.
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Optical condition | Very good. No dents, structurally sound. Age-appropriate signs of use. |
| Glass: | Very clean. Light cleaning marks, typical for this model due to the soft lens surfaces of the Summicron 5cm. No further optical defects. Characteristic yellow Thorium coating well preserved. |
| Function | Fully functional. |
| Mechanics | Focus ring operates smoothly. Aperture ring operates smoothly and clicks cleanly at all stops. |
| JBV Foto Inspection | Lens manually inspected for function and optical condition. |
Features of the Leica Summicron 2/5cm Yellow Coating M39
The Leica Summicron 2/5cm with Thorium coating dates from an early production period when Thorium oxide was used as part of the coating compound. The result is the characteristic yellowing of the glass elements, which gives this lens its distinctive character. In practice, this translates to warmer color rendition on color film and noticeably increased contrast on black-and-white photography. The Leica Summicron 5cm M39 is designed for Leica screw-mount cameras and can be used on all Leica M bodies with an M39-to-M adapter. A rare find in terms of collectability, thanks to the Thorium coating and the well-preserved overall condition.
Leica Summicron 2/5cm Thorium Glass M39 screw mount: Warm rendering on color, pronounced contrast on black-and-white. Well suited for rangefinder photography and collectors with an interest in rare Leica optics.
Scope of Delivery - Leica Summicron 2/5cm Yellow Coating M39
The scope of delivery is shown in the Pictures.
Technical Specifications
- Lens type: Prime lens, manual focus
- Serial number: 1023575
- Mount: M39 screw mount (Leica Thread Mount)
- Glass: Very clean, light cleaning marks, yellow Thorium coating preserved
- Focal length: 50mm
- Maximum aperture: f/2
- Image character: Warm color tones, strong black-and-white contrast, classic vintage rendering.
The Leica Summicron 2/5cm M39 is natively compatible with all Leica screw-mount cameras and can be used on any Leica M body with an M39-to-M adapter. The Thorium coating is a characteristic of early production runs and gives this Summicron its unmistakable rendering. A rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts.
JBV Vintage & Collectable Service
JBV Vintage & Collectable, based in Nuremberg, specializes in buying and selling analog cameras, lenses, and photo accessories. Rare Leica optics such as the Summicron 2/5cm with Thorium coating are inspected and described transparently before sale. Shipping is available throughout Germany, the EU, and worldwide. Looking to sell your Leica collection or individual lenses? We also purchase Leica lenses and other vintage optics. Send us photos for a no-obligation offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the yellow Thorium coating on the Leica Summicron 2/5cm?
- In early production years, Thorium oxide was used as part of the lens coating compound, resulting in the characteristic yellowing of the glass. This influences image rendering: warmer tones on color film and stronger contrast on black-and-white photography.
- Is the radioactivity of Thorium glass lenses a health concern?
- The radiation emitted by Thorium glass lenses is considered negligible during normal photographic use. The lens should not be carried close to the body for extended periods; regular shooting poses no known risk.
- What condition is this copy in?
- Very good condition. The glass is very clean with only light cleaning marks typical for this model. Aperture and focus ring operate smoothly.
- Is the lens compatible with Leica M cameras?
- The Leica Summicron 2/5cm M39 is designed for the Leica screw mount. With an M39-to-M adapter it is fully compatible with all Leica M bodies.
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