Leica Revives a Rare Military Lens with the New Summicron-M 66 f/2

Leica Camera AG is bringing a rare chapter of its optical history into the present with the new Leica Summicron-M 66 f/2, a limited-edition lens inspired by an exceptionally scarce lens originally developed for the US Navy.

The story dates back to the late 1960s, when Dr Walter Mandler developed the Elcan 66 mm f/2 at Ernst Leitz Canada. Designed for military use by the US Navy, only around 200 units were produced, making the lens one of the rarest optics associated with the Leica M-System.

The new Summicron-M 66 f/2 pays tribute to this historic lens while adapting its optical concept and mechanical design for modern photography. It marks the first time Leica is making this particular focal length available to photography enthusiasts worldwide.

While the optical design is based on the original Elcan, it has been optimised to meet contemporary standards. The lens body also incorporates several design details that distinguish it from standard Leica M lenses. Its aperture ring rotates in the opposite direction, while the distance scale arrangement follows the specifications used for the original military lens.

The engravings have also been reinterpreted from the original design. A finer typeface highlights the new 66 mm focal length, giving the lens a distinctive appearance compared with Leica’s current range.

With a maximum aperture of f/2, the Summicron-M 66 f/2 is designed to deliver the distinctive rendering associated with Leica’s Classic Line. Images are characterised by the combination of soft bokeh and high contrast. Stopping the lens down brings its high-resolution capabilities to the fore, allowing fine details to be reproduced with clarity.

The 66 mm focal length sits between the traditional 50 mm focal length and longer portrait lenses. This provides a natural perspective with subtle image compression, making it suitable for photographers looking for a different take on everyday and portrait photography.

Leica is also marking the launch with a special collector’s opportunity. In November 2026, the Summicron-M 66 f/2 with serial number 001 will be offered at the Leitz Photographica Auction in Wetzlar. As the first lens in the worldwide limited edition of just 660 units, the numbered example is expected to hold particular appeal for collectors and Leica enthusiasts.

The Leica Summicron-M 66 f/2 will be available worldwide from 3 September 2026 at Leica Stores and authorised dealers. The recommended retail price is S$14,580, including GST. https://alvinology.com/2026/09/01/poco-f9-series-lands-with-185fps-gaming-200mp-cameras-and-massive-batteries/