In 1957, the new Elmar 50/2.8 normal lens was introduced, with half a stop less brightness than the classic f/3.5 version, which had accompanied Leica cameras almost since their inception. The version with a 39×1 screw mount has the code ELMOO. The first models still bear the old 5cm designation.
At the same time, the M bayonet version, code ELMOM/11112, was introduced, which was produced until 1974, with 38,757 units (compared to 27,357 units of the screw mount version).
The discrepancy in production can be easily explained by the year of introduction of our Elmar, which is the same as that of the IIIg, its perfect companion, the last Leica with a screw mount.
The lens is retractable and weighs 220g, with a circular iris diaphragm, closing to f/16, a bell for locking the focus at infinity and an MDMAF of 1 m.
The focusing distance is initially indicated in feet, then in metres and finally with a double scale.
ITOOY lens hood.