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Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt Visoflex Lens

The Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt is a lens from Leica. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt Visoflex Lens

Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt Visoflex Lens

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Lens Overview — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

The Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt is a vintage manual focus telephoto lens manufactured during the 1960s, designed for use with the Leica Visoflex reflex housing system. It mounts via the Leica Thread Mount (LTM / M39), the classic screw-mount standard that connects it to compatible Leica bodies and Visoflex attachments. With a focal length of 400mm and a maximum aperture of f/5, this lens was purpose-built for reaching distant subjects in the 35mm film format.

Being a product of its era, operation is entirely manual, requiring the photographer to handle both focus and exposure settings by hand — a deliberate, considered approach to image-making that many photographers still find rewarding today. Weighing in at 1,200g, it has a substantial, solid feel typical of Leica's precision engineering from this period. Classified as an SLR-type vintage lens with 35mm film compatibility, the Telyt 400mm represents a compelling piece of photographic history for collectors and film shooters who appreciate the craftsmanship and optical heritage of mid-century Leica glass.

It is compatible with interchangeable telephoto lens systems and carries the legacy of Leica's optical tradition.

Key Features — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

400mm f/5 Telephoto: A long focal length with a moderate maximum aperture designed for isolating distant subjects on 35mm film.

Visoflex System Design: Built specifically for use with Leica's Visoflex reflex housing, which enables through-the-lens viewing on rangefinder Leica bodies.

Leica Thread Mount (M39): Screw-mount interface connects the lens to compatible Leica bodies and Visoflex attachments using the classic LTM standard.

Manual Focus Operation: All focusing is handled manually, requiring deliberate technique suited to careful, methodical shooting workflows.

1960s Vintage Construction: Manufactured during the 1960s, reflecting the precision mechanical engineering standards Leica maintained during that era.

Substantial All-Metal Build: Heavy all-metal construction typical of professional Leica glass from this period; confirm exact weight before listing.

Lens Specifications — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesWildlife, Sports, Birding
Lens MountLeica Thread Mount (LTM / M39)
Focus TypeManual Focus

Description — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

The Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt Visoflex Lens is a manual focus telephoto lens from the 1960s, built for the 35mm film format and mounted via the Leica Thread Mount (LTM / M39). Designed specifically for the Leica Visoflex reflex system, it brings a long 400mm reach at a maximum aperture of f/5, making it a dedicated tool for photographing distant subjects on film. Weighing 1,200g, the lens has the substantial, precision-built feel characteristic of Leica's mid-century manufacturing.

Its manual focus operation demands an engaged, hands-on shooting style that resonates strongly with film photography purists and collectors alike. Classified as a vintage SLR-type lens with compatibility listed under telephoto and interchangeable lens categories, the Telyt 400mm is a historically significant optic that reflects Leica's commitment to quality during one of the most celebrated decades in photographic history.

Pros — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

  • ✓Vintage 400mm f/5 telephoto focal length purpose-built for the 35mm format
  • ✓Leica Thread Mount (LTM / M39) enables compatibility with Leica Visoflex system setups
  • ✓Manufactured during the 1960s — a genuine piece of photographic heritage with collector appeal

Cons — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

  • ✗Exclusively manual focus with no autofocus capability
  • ✗Heavy at 1,200g, which may be demanding for handheld use at 400mm
  • ✗Requires a Visoflex reflex housing for use, adding complexity and cost to the system

Videos — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

🔴 SO GOOD! 💥 Convert your Leica into a SLR Camera | Leica Visoflex + EVF — Matt Osborne

Resources & Downloads — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt

What mount does the Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt use?+
This lens uses the Leica Thread Mount (LTM / M39), a screw-thread mount standard. It was designed for use with the Leica Visoflex reflex housing system. Adapters may allow use on other camera systems, but compatibility should be verified before purchase.
Is this lens compatible with 35mm film cameras?+
Yes, the Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt is specified as compatible with the 35mm film format. It is classified as an SLR-type vintage lens intended for use in 35mm film photography.
When was this lens manufactured?+
The Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt was manufactured during the 1960s, making it a vintage lens with over half a century of history. This era of Leica production is particularly prized by collectors and film photography enthusiasts.
Does this lens have autofocus?+
No, this lens is manual focus only. As a vintage lens from the 1960s, all focusing must be performed manually by the photographer, which is consistent with the operating style of the Leica Visoflex system it was designed for.
How heavy is the Leica 400mm f/5 Telyt?+
The lens weighs 1,200g. Given this weight combined with its 400mm focal length, photographers should consider using a tripod or stable support for comfortable and steady operation.

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