2-Front elements

3-Focus modules

R to EF adapters

Leica APO-Telyt-R Module System

Leica APO-Telyt Module FAQ

Leica's modular tele-photo lenses provide very high mechanical and optical quality in the best of the brand's tradition. The lenses are sharp and virtually free of vignetting. Also, the apo-chromatic correction results in the near absence of color fringing and excellent contrast.

Like any other long tele-photo lens, the Leica APO-Telyts need solid tripod support and good photographic technique to exploit their full sharpness potential. Handholding the tele-lenses might be possible on some occasions, but the risk of motion blur will increase markedly. Keeping these general long-lens caveats in mind, user experiences with the lens system are generally very favorable. Below is, nevertheless, a list of issues that warrant the Leica shooter's attention.

How much distortion do the Module lenses show?

Distortion at 1-1.5% (depending on configuration) is somewhat higher than the corresponding value of most competitor lenses, but can be easily corrected in digital post-processing.

Can the f/5.6 lenses be focused easily?

Manual focusing with the f/5.6 lenses can be a challenge, as the viewfinder image is darkened. Leica recommends to replace the micro-prism screen of its R-cameras with a plain ground glass screen.

What are the advantages and inconveniences of the Module lenses having a separate, dedicated hand grip on top?

The dedicated hand grip makes it possible for the tripod mount to be sturdier and less prone to vibration. On the other hand, it provides additional exposure to the wind and accidental knock-overs.

Isn't is cumbersome to manage all those front and rear caps of the different heads and focusing units?

The multitude of caps is indeed an inconvenience of the modular lens system.

Why is the Leica logo engraved on the small head, but only glued on as a sticker on the large head?

The need for cost savings seems to have motivated Leica to use a less sophisticated branding on the more expensive head.

Do the lenses have any depth-of-field markings?

No, there are no DoF markings.

Can the APO-Telyt-R lenses be used on a Leica S-series medium format camera?

Yes, there is an adapter made by Michael Leibfritz that makes it possible to mount an R-system lens on a Leica S. The image circle of the lens will cover the full sensor area.

Is the Leica Telescope Ocular to R compatible with the Module lenses?

Yes, the Ocular to R works very well with the Module lenses and offers a magnification of up to 64x with the 5.6/800mm.