Leica has released new versions of three of its existing M lenses, giving users a choice of a silver option of the normal 75mm, and two limited edition lenses to match the Olive green M10-P ‘Safari’. The technical specifications of the three new lenses are identical to those of their serially produced counterparts.

The APO-Summicron-M 75 f/2 ASPH. counts among the most high-performing lenses for the Leica M, and is particularly well suited to portrait photography. Now the lens is also available in a silver anodized finish which perfectly emphasizes its sophisticated design. In contrast to the black-paint variant, the feet markings on the distance scale as well as the focal length engravings are inlaid in red, while all other engravings feature black inlays.

In addition, Leica are producing a limited run of the special-edition Summicron-M 28 f/2 ASPH. and APO-Summicron-M 90 f/2 ASPH. with a special, olive green paint finish. Both “Safari”-edition lenses feature red-inlaid feet markings on the distance scale and red focal length markings, while all other engravings are inlaid in white – creating a pleasing juxtaposition with the olive green lens body.

Aside from the Leica Summicron-M 50 f/2 released in 2019, the new Summicron-M 28 f/2 ASPH. and APO-Summicron-M 90 f/2 ASPH. are the only M lenses to perfectly match the olive green finish of the Leica M10-P Edition “Safari” – thereby turning the camera into the centerpiece of an appealing collection. The Summicron-M 28 f/2 ASPH. Edition “Safari” is produced in a limited run of 500 units; the APO-Summicron-M 90 f/2 ASPH. Edition “Safari” is limited to 250 units.

The exceptionally hard-wearing, olive green paint has a long-standing tradition at Leica. The first Leicas to be treated with this superior-quality enamel finish were designed for military use. It was not long before the cameras became widely renowned as robust tools that could withstand even the most extreme conditions. What started in the year 1960 with the Leica M1 “Olive” for the German Armed Forces, went on to become an enduring success story.

While the Leica M3 and M4 in olive green were still manufactured exclusively for military use, growing demand among private customers prompted Leica to release the first market version – the Leica R3 “Safari” – in 1977. This was followed by the M6 TTL “Safari” of 2000, the M8.2 “Safari” of 2008, the M-P (Typ 240) “Safari” of 2015 and, most recently, the M10-P Edition “Safari” of 2019. The olive green cameras are highly sought after by collectors and Leica enthusiasts.

More info on Leica’s website.