Leica's modular R telephoto — the APO-Telyt-R lens-head and focus-module system, 280/400/560mm.
The Leica APO-Telyt-R Module system was introduced in 1996 as a modular telephoto solution for the Leica R reflex system. Rather than being a single fixed lens, it is a set of interchangeable lens-head modules and focus modules that combine to form different telephoto configurations. The core module set covers 280mm f/2.8, 400mm f/4 and 560mm f/5.6, giving three professional telephoto lenses from a shared component system.
This is a manual-focus Leica R-mount modular telephoto with apochromatic optics. In the base configurations it provides a 280mm f/2.8, a 400mm f/4 and a 560mm f/5.6, and further focal lengths are possible by combining heads with converter and focus modules. It is a system rather than a single lens: a lens-head is joined to a focus module to make a complete lens. Because configurations vary, confirm exactly which heads, focus modules and converters are included with any given set.
The apochromatic design targets low chromatic aberration and high contrast in long-telephoto use, aimed at wildlife, aviation and sports photographers who worked on the Leica R system. The modular approach let a single kit cover several focal lengths while sharing focus and mount components, reducing the number of full lenses needed. All focus is manual, and the long focal lengths call for firm tripod or monopod support.
On the used market these appear as complete kits or as individual modules, and pricing depends heavily on which components are present. Confirm the exact modules included, as a lens-head without a matching focus module is not a working lens. Inspect the large front elements for scratches and coating wear, check the focus module for smooth damped action, and verify the module coupling surfaces are clean and undamaged. Because it is a Leica R lens, note that adapting to modern mirrorless is possible but retains manual focus only.