Leitz Telyt 40cm f/8 Prototype

Leitz experimental model of a 40 cm Telyt with maximum aperture of f/8. The front mount engraved with "Nr." on the side, but without a number. Distance scale in "Feet". This lens was part of the Leitz (later Leica) Factory Museum collection until 2003. Leitz Wetzlar Museum inventory number M 649. The corresponding inventory sticker is still there. One identical lens is known to be in the Leica factory museum today. Overall, only these two specimens of this version are known. There was no later market launch.

Extremely beautiful condition, with HIKOO lens hood. The optics show linear coating defects on and behind the front element.

Provenance: Factory Museum collection; Surat Osathanugrah collection (acquired 2003).

Literature: Wilhelm Albert, „Birthdays of the Leitz Photo Constructions from 1927“, p. 145; Lars Netopil, „Museum Leica“, p. 508ff.; James L. Lager, "Leica, an illustrated History", Vol. II (lenses), p. 136 (exactly this lens is illustrated).