Leitz Wetzlar Telyt 400mm f/6.8

Leitz Wetzlar Telyt 400mm f/6.8 | S/N: [Not Specified]

Leitz Wetzlar Telyt 400mm f/6.8 - Good Condition | The Legendary Rapid-Focus "Trombone" Telephoto Masterpiece

Introductory Paragraph The Leitz Wetzlar Telyt 400mm f/6.8 is the definitive choice for the enthusiast who values unparalleled speed and tactile precision in a vintage ultra-telephoto lens. Celebrated for its unique, rapid-action "trombone" push-pull focusing mechanism, this legendary long-focus instrument allows photographers to slide the lens body smoothly to track fast-moving wildlife or sports action, locking instantly into place upon release. It features a minimalist yet brilliant two-element achromat optical design that maximizes contrast and reduces flare to deliver that unmistakable, organic Leitz character with rich micro-contrast. Because it can be disassembled into two compact halves for effortless travel, it serves as an incredibly capable tool for outdoor purists who want deep reach without the crushing weight of a standard vintage telephoto glass. Whether mounted to a classic Leicaflex/Leica R SLR or adapted to a modern digital system, this Leitz provides the mechanical honesty and legendary optical pedigree that redefined handheld action photography in the analog era.

Key Features

• Innovative "Trombone" push-pull focusing mechanism, allowing for lightning-fast, intuitive tracking of fast-moving subjects.

• High-performance two-element achromat optical design, optimized to deliver maximum central sharpness and beautiful, natural contrast.

• Modest and efficient f/6.8 maximum aperture, keeping the barrel remarkably lightweight and easy to manage handheld.

• Modular two-piece breakdown construction, unscrewing cleanly in the center for seamless, space-saving storage in transit.

• Round 16-blade manual diaphragm system, producing a nearly perfect circular aperture for buttery, non-distracting background bokeh.

• Integrated rotating tripod collar, providing smooth, effortless switching between vertical and horizontal compositions on a monopod or tripod.

• Built-in extendable lens hood, engineered to shield the large front element from stray glare and physical damage in the field.

Condition Report Good condition. Body/Barrel: The Leitz Wetzlar lens chassis shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with standard outdoor handling. The push-pull focusing mechanism has been thoroughly checked; the trombone slide action is remarkably smooth, well-greased, and holds focus position perfectly when the catch button is released. Sensor/Optics: The front and rear glass elements are clean and clear; free from fungus, heavy separation, deep scratches, or significant haze. Minimal internal dust particles are present under close inspection, which do not affect image contrast or resolution. Mechanics/Electronics: The manual pre-set aperture ring clicks precisely across all positions, and the 16 iris blades are completely dry and free from oil residue.

Specialist Note "The 400mm f/6.8 Telyt is an absolute legend among bird and wildlife photographers, famously championed by outdoor specialists for its incredible portability. What I love about this model is how fast you can find focus—by utilizing a sliding trombone motion instead of a slow, twisting helicoid ring, you can follow a bird in flight or a runner seamlessly. It’s a rugged, honest piece of West German optical engineering. Because it splits in half, it fits into spaces where normal 400mm lenses would never dream of going. It’s an unforgettable experience on film, and it renders images with a gorgeous, painterly 3D quality when adapted to modern digital mirrorless bodies. For anyone looking for a unique, incredibly sharp telephoto lens that values speed over bulk, this Leitz is a top-tier choice."

What's Included

• Leitz Wetzlar Telyt 400mm f/6.8 Telephoto Lens Head & Focus Tube

• Front Lens Cap

• Rear Mount Cap
  

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Leitz Wetzlar (Leica)

• Model: Telyt 400mm f/6.8

• Lens Type: Telephoto Zoom Lens

• Focal Length: 400mm

• Maximum Aperture: f/6.8

• Lens Mount: Leica R (or Visoflex/M depending on variant)

• Optical Design: 2 elements in 1 group

• Category: 2. Lenses ▸ Telephoto Zoom Lens

• Battery Type: None