Leica's classic compact forty — the Summicron-C 40mm f/2 designed for the CL camera.
The Leica Summicron-C 40mm f/2 was designed in 1973 specifically for the compact Leica CL — Leica's smallest M-mount camera. The C designation indicates the CL-optimised version. At 40mm f/2, it provides a perspective between standard and wide-angle with the Summicron f/2 speed. The 40mm matches the CL's unique frameline and has become a cult lens.
Optical performance is good — Summicron quality in a compact package. Sharpness is very good from f/2 and excellent stopped down. The 40mm perspective is favoured by many street photographers as more natural than either 35mm or 50mm. The rendering has a distinctive character that vintage lens enthusiasts prize. Colour rendition is warm and pleasing.
Leica M mount with rangefinder coupling. Filter thread is 39mm (E39). Weight is approximately 130 grams — one of the lightest Leica Summicron lenses. Build quality is excellent Leica precision despite the compact design. The 40mm focal length is unique to the CL — most M bodies show 50mm or 35mm framelines.
Available on the used market at moderate Leica prices — cult status has increased demand. Check rangefinder coupling and clean optics. A beloved compact Leica lens. The 40mm frameline issue on non-CL bodies means using the 50mm frame as an approximation. An excellent discreet street lens — the tiny size and fast aperture are genuinely practical.