Overview

The Leitz Wetzlar Elmar 135mm f/4 is an affordable ($200 used) telephoto lens with superb sharpness even wide open, thanks to its 12-blade diaphragm and no distortion. It has a 4/4 design, 405g weight, and 1.5m minimum focus. Weaknesses include significant flare with sun just outside the frame and challenging rangefinder focusing. Build is all-metal with smooth controls. It suits budget-conscious Leica M users wanting a sharp, classic telephoto, especially on mirrorless with live view.