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119243Noctilux 1.2/50%u2009mmchrome prototypeThe Noctilux 1.2/50%u2009mm was the world%u2019s first serially produced 35%u2009mm lens to incorporate aspherical elements. Leitz Wetzlar optical designers Helmut Marx and Paul Sindel were responsible for its optical computation. Professor Helmut Marx used an Elliott 402F computer to assist in the design process and significantlyreduce the time required for ray tracing. When the lens was introduced in 1966, it represented the pinnacle of lens design and technological achievement. It is virtually free of spherical aberration and coma while delivering exceptionally high contrast. However, fifty years ago%u2009%u2014%u2009even for Leitz%u2014manufacturing such a lens posed a considerable challenge. This is reflected in its original price: it cost nearly twice as much as the Leica M4camera body. In 1976, the lens was succeeded by the 50%u2009mm Noctilux f/1, whichused new optical glass that allowed for a design without aspherical elements. This made it less expensive and far less labour-intensive to produce than its predecessor. Over its ten-year production span, only around 1,800 units of the 50mm Noctilux f/1.2 were made%u2009%u2014%u2009approximately one lens per business day. The Noctilux f/1.2is rightfully considered a legend in the technical evolution of Leica lenses. It is highly coveted by collectors and remains a favorite among many photographers. In this auction, we are pleased to offer the %u2018white unicorn%u2019 of Leica M lenses:the original chrome prototype of the Noctilux f/1.2. The lens is in excellentcosmetic condition, with only minimal internal haze. Prototype no. 0000663 was previously sold in our 41st auction in November 2022. This is an exceptionally rare opportunity for Leica%u00a0collectors.Start price %u20ac 200.000est. %u20ac 300.000%u2013 360.000Serial no.0000662Year of production: 1964condition: A/B