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Leica Summicron-M 66 Limited Edition Launch

NEWS: Leica releases limited edition Summicron-M 66 for rangefinder cameras

A rare optic from the past is returning nearly 60 years after it was developed. The new Summicron-M 66 f/2 reinterprets a special-purpose design from the late 1960s.

Pictured: An original ELCAN 66mm f/2 from the early 1970s.

A lens with a story

The new prime is based on an ELCAN 66mm f/2 developed by Dr. Walter Mandler at Ernst Leitz Canada for use by the US Navy. Fewer than 200 were made, making surviving examples exceptionally rare and desirable.

A 1970 Elcan 2/66mm sold at Leitz Photographica Auction in 2020 for €90,000, against an estimate of €60,000–€70,000. The original optics contained nine elements and an E39 filter thread; the modern reinvention has six elements and an E49 thread, optimised and adapted to modern standards.

Why 66mm?

This unusual focal length wasn't an arbitrary choice. Mandler said it resulted from searching for the best balance of resolving power, fine contrast and compact dimensions to meet a military brief.

He also recalled that the Naval Intelligence Service wanted something that looked like any other lens while delivering an unparalleled level of resolution. Yes, it will no doubt be called a 'spy lens'. Enough said.

Some of the original's quirks have survived. The aperture ring turns in the opposite direction to standard M models and the distance scale follows the military arrangement. The engraving style also references the predecessor.

The Summicron name denotes the f/2 range, bringing the former ELCAN special-purpose design into contemporary M-System nomenclature.

Rendering at f/2 is said to combine high contrast with soft, creamy bokeh. Stopping down increases resolution and detail, allowing the user to choose the character of the resulting image.

Just 660 individually numbered examples are planned, so best be quick. There will inevitably be interest from collectors — we hope some find their way onto the streets too, documenting everyday life nearly 60 years after the original appeared. After all, isn't that what a Leica is best at?

Discover more: Leica Summicron-M 66mm f/2 Lens.

Sample images are made with the Leica M EV1.

Sample 01. Settings: 1/320. f/2.8. ISO 80

Sample 02. Settings: 1/350. f/5.6. ISO 200

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By Nick Dautlich on 03/09/2026

Nick Dautlich

Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer

Nick Dautlich is the Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer at Park Cameras, with over 15 years of photography experience. A Sony Imaging Professional and expert reviewer, Nick has worked with major brands such as Canon, Sony and Nikon. His work is also featured on Vanguard World UK’s website, Capture Landscapes, and Shutter Evolve. Nick’s photography includes National Trust projects and magazine covers and he is passionate about landscapes and storytelling. Nick also enjoys hiking and teaching his children about nature. Learn more on his profile page.