280mm · f/2.8
The Leica APO-Telyt-R 280mm f/2.8 is a manual-focus telephoto lens renowned for its apochromatic correction, delivering outstanding sharpness and contrast wide open, with minimal chromatic aberration. Vignetting is modest at f/2.8 (0.6 stops) and distortion negligible. Build quality is excellent, with smooth focus and a sliding hood, but the tripod collar lacks continuous locking positions. At 2.75-2.8 kg, it is heavy but manageable; a later version accepts drop-in filters. It suits photographers prioritizing optical perfection over autofocus or stabilization, especially for tripod-based work.