Exchange lens for Leica L mount Leitz Summar 50mm F2 “Tropen” Tropical Version 【Overview】 This is an extremely rare special edition Summar, manufactured in the late 1930s. Compared to the standard version's 4 elements in 6 groups, this lens has 4 elements in 7 groups with an additional element in the front. It features a slightly longer lens barrel and a guide groove in the collapsible section, similar to the Summitar. It was never officially announced, and the number manufactured was extremely limited, making it a rare model. 【Condition of the Item】 Optics: The Tropen, with its additional front element, is clearly more robust than the standard version, and there are almost no common scratches. There is no clouding, fungus, scratches, or balsam separation, and the optics are clear and pristine, clearly indicating a special specification. Appearance: There is wear on the plating of the collapsible section, showing signs of age, but there is no damage that would interfere with use. Operation: Both the focusing and aperture operate smoothly throughout their entire range. 【Accessories】 ・Original front cap (brass chrome, Leica logo) ・Original rear cap (brass chrome, black interior) 【Comment】 As the name "Tropen" (tropical) suggests, this is a special edition Summar with design modifications to enhance resistance to climatic conditions, and the product code is also different from the standard version. (Standard: 42134 / Tropen: 42214) From June to September 1938, the lenses were sent mainly to tropical regions such as Bombay, Jakarta, Singapore, and Shanghai, and also to New York and Italy (probably Genoa). And in the latter half of 1938, they were also sent to the Netherlands, Cuba, and South Africa. These were likely tests of resistance to high-temperature and high-humidity conditions, including fungus resistance. The reason why many Tropen lenses have few scratches, clouding, or fungus is due to these circumstances. In fact, this particular lens has clear, pristine optics that are unlike any Summar, giving a completely different impression from the standard version. The serial number range is concentrated in the first few hundred from 410 000, and the total number of units is estimated to be around a few hundred. Most Tropen lenses are marked in feet due to their export overseas, but this particular lens is marked in meters (mtr), making it a rare find. The Tropen is an enigmatic presence, never officially announced. The opportunity to hold one in your hands is not very common. 〜 Leica Treasure Market 〜