Carl Zeiss f. Leica M Hologon 8/15mm 11003

The famous Carl Zeiss 15mm Hologon f/8 for Leica M, in near-mint condition with clean optics (minimal marks on the rear element). Complete with the dedicated 15mm finder, original center filter, both caps, German brochure and the extremely rare original maker’s box with matching serial number.

Oskar Barnack himself moved from Carl Zeiss to Leitz Wetzlar in 1911, where he began the Leica story. Two decades later, in 1932, Zeiss introduced the Contax camera, entering the 35mm market as a direct competitor to Leica. Despite this rivalry, the relationship between the two companies remained respectful, with a few remarkable instances of cooperation.

The Hologon was first introduced by Zeiss as a fixed lens on a modified Contarex camera. From 1972 onwards, it was also produced in Leica M mount and listed in the Leitz catalogue as the “Carl Zeiss Hologon for Leica M” until 1975.

The Hologon provides a dramatic 110° angle of coverage with virtually no distortion. Its slight vignetting was compensated by a special center filter, while a large bright-line finder completed the outfit.

Produced only in very small numbers, the Hologon M set has always been one of the rarest Leica-compatible ultra-wide-angle lenses. Complete examples with all accessories and original box are exceedingly difficult to find today, especially in such outstanding condition.