Leica's compact collapsible 90mm — f/4 Elmar in the smallest possible M telephoto package.
The Leica Elmar 90mm f/4 (C) is a collapsible telephoto prime for Leica M-mount full-frame, with the 'C' indicating the collapsible barrel design. Four elements in 3 groups. Six aperture blades. 39mm filter thread. At approximately 170g. 1.0m MFD. Manual focus.
Four elements in 3 groups. Six aperture blades. The 39mm filter thread. At approximately 170g. Minimum focus distance of 1.0m (rangefinder-coupled). Collapsible barrel (must be extended to shooting position). Manual focus only. f/4 maximum aperture. Full-frame coverage. Leica M mount.
The collapsible (C) designation defines the lens form: the barrel retracts into the camera body for storage, substantially reducing the profile of the M body with lens attached. The barrel must be extended to the shooting position before use — a collapsed Elmar cannot be fired. The Elmar designation indicates f/4 in Leica nomenclature.
On the used market the Leica Elmar 90mm f/4 (C) is affordable as a vintage compact M-mount telephoto. Condition checks: collapsible barrel extends and locks securely, 39mm front element for marks, rangefinder coupling. Compatible with all Leica M-mount bodies.