Question 1

Which Leica lenses use a 39mm (E39) filter thread?

Accepted Answer

A number of classic Leica M and screw-mount lenses use a 39mm filter thread, including several Summicron, Summaron, and Elmar focal lengths. Look for 'E39' engraved on the front of the lens barrel — this filter fits directly without an adapter.

Question 2

What does a UV/IR filter actually do on a digital camera?

Accepted Answer

Digital sensors pick up infrared light that film largely ignored. Without filtration, IR can creep into your exposures and cause muddy colours or reduced contrast, particularly in bright outdoor light. A UV/IR filter cuts both UV and IR wavelengths so only visible light reaches the sensor, giving you cleaner, truer-to-life results straight out of camera.

Question 3

Can I use the Leica E39 UV/IR filter as a permanent lens protector?

Accepted Answer

You can, and many Leica shooters do exactly that — the UV/IR filter doubles as physical protection for the front element with virtually no optical downside in normal daylight shooting. Just make sure it's clean before you shoot, since a 39mm filter sits close to the lens and any smudges will be in the optical path.

Question 4

Is buying a used Leica filter worth it?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Filters don't have moving parts, electronics, or a shutter count. At Camera-tweedehands.nl, every filter is hand-inspected for scratches, fungus, and thread integrity. A second-hand Leica E39 UV/IR filter that passes our inspection performs identically to a new one, and every filter sold here comes with a minimum 12 months warranty.

Question 5

Does the 39mm thread on this filter match the Leica M39 lens mount?

Accepted Answer

The diameter is the same — 39mm — but these are two different standards. The M39 (Leica Thread Mount) is a lens-to-body bayonet with a specific pitch, while E39 is a standard filter thread on the front of the lens barrel. The Leica 13420 filter screws onto the front of E39 lenses; it has nothing to do with mounting the lens itself to the camera.

Question 6

What is the Leica article number 13420?

Accepted Answer

13420 is Leica's own part number for the E39 UV/IR filter. If you're searching for a replacement or checking compatibility with your existing Leica accessories (such as lens hoods or caps designed for E39 lenses), this number confirms you have the correct item.

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Leica E39 UV/IR Filter [13420]

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About the Leica E39 UV/IR Filter [13420]

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