Leica pays tribute to one of the most elusive lenses in the history of the Leica M-System with the new Summicron-M 66mm f/2. Inspired by the extraordinary Elcan 66mm f/2 designed by legendary optical engineer Dr. Walter Mandler at Ernst Leitz Canada in the late 1960s, this exclusive lens brings a remarkable piece of Leica optical history into the modern M-System.
The original Elcan 66mm f/2 was developed for the U.S. Navy and designed specifically for military reconnaissance photography. With its compact construction and exceptionally high resolving power, it represented an ambitious optical design for its time. Only approximately 200 examples were produced, making the original Elcan one of the rarest lenses associated with the Leica M-System.
The new Summicron-M 66mm f/2 is based on the optical design of the historic Elcan, retaining its distinctive character while bringing the concept into a contemporary Leica lens. Its unusual 66mm focal length makes it unique within Leica's current portfolio and provides a slightly telephoto perspective that is particularly flattering for portraits.
At f/2, the lens produces a soft, harmonious rendering with smooth, distinctive bokeh. This combination of focal length, perspective, and wide-aperture rendering makes it especially appealing for portrait photography and subjects where separation from the background is desired.
Stopping the lens down reveals another important part of the original design philosophy: high image sharpness and resolution. Like its historic predecessor, the Summicron-M 66mm f/2 is designed to deliver its highest level of optical performance at smaller apertures.
The Summicron-M 66mm f/2 is limited to just 660 numbered examples worldwide. Each lens carries its individual edition number engraved directly on the lens, while the edition number is intentionally omitted from the packaging.
This is also the first Leica limited-edition lens designed from the ground up as a dedicated model, rather than being a limited-edition variation of an existing lens. Its unusual focal length, optical heritage, and distinctive construction give it a character entirely its own.
The lens features an engraving design inspired by the original Elcan 66mm f/2, including its internal lens calculation number, material number, individual edition number, and the inscription "Leitz Wetzlar."
Adding another unusual historical detail, the meter and feet focusing scales are reversed compared with standard Leica M lenses, further reflecting the special nature of this design.
The Leica Summicron-M 66mm f/2 combines the legacy of Dr. Walter Mandler, the rarity of the original Elcan 66mm f/2, and Leica's modern approach to precision optics in a uniquely collectible M-System lens. With only 660 examples being produced worldwide, it is as much a celebration of Leica's optical history as it is a photographic instrument.
The significance of the edition will be highlighted by serial number 001, which is scheduled to be auctioned at the Leitz Photographica Auction in Wetzlar in November 2026. As the first-numbered lens in the worldwide edition, it represents a particularly special piece of contemporary Leica history.
