The following message appeared on the Leica Users' Group list this
morning [Thurs 16 Aug]
I opened up the Olympus 4cm f2.8 lens to clean out some schmutz between
the elements and it is a classic Tessar-type configuration -- two front
elements, diaphragm and a cemented doublet behind. So the "C" cannot
stand for three lens elements. I suspect it stands for "Coated" given
the age of the lens. The lens does couple properly to the rangefinder
of a Leica.
I've been trying to glean information about this on the internet, but
there is little to be found. The best I can figure is that 4 cm f2.8
was made between 1949 and 1952 -- the dates between when the company
took the name on the lens, and when Japanese equipment was still being
labelled "Made in Occupied Japan." It appears that no more than 2000 of
these were made, and that my example was manufactured later in the
production run. This is a very well made chrome over brass lens, with a
massive black finished brass rangefinder cam. The styling of the lens
is quite clearly influenced by Leica, looking like a cross between the
35mm Elmar and the 35mm Summaron. I suspect that this lens is the same
formula that was later available on the Olympus 35 Vb. In no way is the
construction of this lens inferior to its contemporaries at Leica, Canon
or Nikon as far as I can see. The accessory finder is quite heavy for
its size, and is a matte chrome over brass. It is consistent with the
construction of other Olympus cameras of the time and reminiscent of the
hefty accessory shoe on a Chrome Six.
Any idea where I can contact Olympus experts who might know more about
this lens?
This little beauty is one of the reasons why I find collecting and using
the older LTM equipment to be irresistible. Infinite variety and all
sorts of unexpected gems keep cropping up.
The writer, Mark Langer, at mlanger@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx might appreciate a
direct response.
John Hudson
Vancouver, BC
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