Leica 60mm (1972–1995)
A manual focus macro lens designed for detailed close-ups and portrait work, used by photojournalists and filmmakers alike.
Overview
The Leica 60mm is a macro lens produced by Leica for use with 35mm SLR cameras. Introduced in 1972, it was part of the Leica R system and remained in production until 1995. The lens was used by renowned photographer Sebastião Salgado during his documentation of the Kuwait oil fires in 1991, shot with a Leica R6. Designed for both macro and portrait applications, it has been adopted by modern creators for detailed video work, including B-roll footage for YouTube content.
Specifications
| Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Designation | Macro |
| Focal Length | 60mm |
| Maximum Magnification Ratio | 1x |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.16m |
Design
The Leica 60mm APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL f/2.8 ASPH variant features an apochromatic design that eliminates color fringing and chromatic aberrations, with three aspherical elements in its optical construction. Some versions include autofocus with manual override, particularly those built for the L-Mount system.
Context
The Leica 60mm was part of the Leica R series ecosystem, appearing alongside models like the Leica R4 and R6.2. It was succeeded by updated variants, including a ROM version considered the final iteration of the line. While initially introduced as the Macro-Elmarit-R for R-mount SLRs, later versions evolved into the APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL series for mirrorless platforms, reflecting Leica’s transition to modern autofocus systems.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.