Question 1

What is the Leica 50mm f/2 Summicron-M 11826?

Accepted Answer

The 11826 is the article number for a specific version of the Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 — a manual-focus, Leica M mount prime lens. It weighs 240g, has a 10-blade aperture, a 39mm filter thread, and a minimum focus distance of 0.7m. It's often referred to as the 'v5' or fifth version of the Summicron 50mm line.

Question 2

What is the difference between the Leica Summicron 50mm f/2 v4 and v5?

Accepted Answer

The v4 and v5 Summicron 50mm are both optically respected lenses, but the v5 (11826) features a more modern barrel design and the 39mm filter thread. The v4 has a slightly different rendering character, while the v5 is generally seen as the more refined and ergonomically updated version. Both are manual focus Leica M mount lenses.

Question 3

Does the Leica 50mm f/2 Summicron-M 11826 have autofocus?

Accepted Answer

No — this is a fully manual focus lens. There is no autofocus mechanism and no image stabilisation. Focusing is done via the rangefinder coupling on a Leica M body, using the focus ring and the camera's built-in rangefinder patch.

Question 4

What cameras is the Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 compatible with?

Accepted Answer

The lens uses the Leica M bayonet mount, so it fits any Leica M camera body — film or digital. With appropriate third-party adapters, it can also be used on Sony Alpha bodies, Fujifilm X-series, and other mirrorless systems. The aperture ring remains fully functional on adapted bodies, though you lose rangefinder coupling and will need to use manual focus aids like focus peaking or magnification instead.

Question 5

Is the Leica 50mm 1:2 Summicron-M a good portrait lens?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a 50mm focal length on a Leica M full-frame body gives a natural, slightly flattering perspective that works well for environmental and close-up portraits. The f/2 aperture and 10-blade design allow for smooth background separation, especially when shooting closer to the 0.7m minimum focus distance. It won't produce the same subject separation as a Leica Noctilux, but the rendering is clean and the bokeh is generally pleasing.

Question 6

How close can the Leica 50mm Summicron-M 11826 focus?

Accepted Answer

The minimum focus distance is 0.7m. That's usable for tight headshots and close detail work, though it's not a dedicated macro lens. For reference, some competing 50mm M-mount lenses focus no closer than 1m, so the Summicron's 0.7m capability is a genuine practical advantage for photographers who like to get in close.

Question 7

Is buying a used Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 worth it?

Accepted Answer

For most Leica M shooters, yes — buying a second-hand Summicron 50mm is one of the smarter ways to get into the system. These lenses are built to last, they hold their value well, and a professionally inspected copy with warranty gives you real peace of mind. At Camera-tweedehands.nl, every used lens is individually photographed and hand-inspected, and comes with a minimum of 12 months warranty.

Question 8

What filter size does the Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 11826 use?

Accepted Answer

The filter thread is 39mm (E39). This is a standard size across several Leica M lenses, so if you already shoot with other Leica M primes there's a good chance you already have compatible filters. UV and polarising filters in this size are widely available.

Mount	Leica M
Focal range	Standard
Prime / Zoom	Prime
Focal length (min)	50 mm
Focal length (max)	50 mm
Max. aperture	f/2
Stabilisation
Weight (Grams)	240
Year of release	1979
Auto Focus

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Leica 50mm f/2 Summicron-M (11826)

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About the Leica 50mm f/2 Summicron-M (11826)

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