Leica's long R tele zoom — the manual-focus Vario-Elmar-R 105-280mm f/4.2, constant-aperture reach.
The Leica Vario-Elmar-R 105-280mm f/4.2 is a medium-to-long telephoto zoom for the Leica R reflex system, covering short telephoto to long reach at a constant f/4.2 maximum aperture. It extended the R zoom range well beyond the 80-200mm and 70-210mm lenses. It gave R users a single lens for distant subjects.
This is a manual-focus Leica R lens covering 105-280mm with a constant maximum aperture of f/4.2 across the range. It is a full-frame reflex telephoto zoom introduced later in the R line. Buyers should confirm the filter thread and cam configuration on the specific example, and check the tripod collar and mount for condition given the lens's size and weight.
The 105-280mm range reaches well into telephoto territory, suiting wildlife, sport and distant subjects where the 200mm zooms fall short. The constant f/4.2 aperture holds exposure steady through the range. It is a substantial lens best supported on a tripod or monopod for the longer settings, giving flexible framing of far subjects.
On the used market this long tele zoom is less common and appeals to R users needing reach. Check the zoom and focus actions for smoothness, look for internal haze, fungus and dust, and confirm the aperture works cleanly. Inspect the tripod collar and mount for wear, verify the cam setup for correct metering on your R body, and note that a Leica R adapter enables mirrorless use.