Leica's L-Mount super-telephoto zoom — 100-400mm with Leica optics for the SL system.
The Leica Vario-Elmar-SL 100-400mm f/5-6.3 was announced in 2023 as the long-telephoto zoom for the Leica SL system and L-Mount ecosystem. Twenty-two elements in 16 groups. Nine aperture blades. 82mm filter thread. At approximately 1,482g body (1,530g with tripod collar). 110cm MFD at 100mm (159cm at 400mm). Built-in OIS. 0.24x maximum magnification.
The optical design uses 22 elements in 16 groups. Nine aperture blades. The 82mm filter thread. At approximately 1,482g (body only) the lens is substantial. Minimum focus distance of 110cm (at 100mm) / 159cm (at 400mm). Built-in OIS (approximately 4 stops). Variable aperture from f/5 at 100mm to f/6.3 at 400mm. L-Mount native communication.
The Vario-Elmar-SL 100-400mm completes the Leica SL telephoto range beyond the APO-Vario-Elmarit-SL 90-280mm: the 400mm reach covers wildlife, aviation, and sports from extreme distances in the SL system. The built-in OIS provides stabilisation on Leica SL bodies, and combines with IBIS-equipped L-Mount bodies (Panasonic S series) for Dual IS. At 1,482g, it is the heaviest lens in the current SL system.
On the used market the Leica Vario-Elmar-SL 100-400mm is available at Leica SL telephoto pricing. Condition checks: OIS engagement, AF response, 82mm front element for marks, zoom ring smoothness, tripod collar rotation. Compatible with all L-Mount bodies: Leica SL/SL2/SL2-S, Panasonic S, Sigma FP/FP L.