Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 Lens

Key Features

• APO-corrected 100mm macro lens for L-Mount cameras
• True 1:1 reproduction ratio
• 30cm minimum focusing distance
• Fast autofocus with focus limiter
• Nine-blade aperture for smooth background rendering
• Compatible with Leica 1.4x and 2x teleconverters
• Aqua-Dura protective front lens coating
• Weather-resistant all-metal construction
• Compatible with Leica SL cameras

Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 Lens Summary

The Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 is a full-frame L-Mount macro lens that combines true 1:1 reproduction with the optical precision of an apochromatically corrected design. Developed as a modern successor to the highly regarded APO-Macro-Elmarit-R 100mm f/2.8 from 1987, it combines true 1:1 macro capability with Leica’s optical design.

Within the SL lens lineup it serves a dual role as both a specialist macro lens and a versatile short telephoto. The 100mm focal length provides a comfortable working distance for close-up photography while also lending itself naturally to portraiture. Introduced alongside the Leica SL3-P body, it complements the camera’s high-resolution sensor with a 30cm minimum focusing distance, fast autofocus and a true 1:1 reproduction ratio.

For photographers working with products, artwork, nature, jewellery or portraits, it introduces dedicated macro capability to the SL system while retaining the handling and build quality expected from Leica.

Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 Lens In More Detail

Apochromatic Optical Performance

The APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 uses 17 elements in 12 groups with apochromatic correction to minimise chromatic aberration throughout the focus range. This maintains high levels of detail, contrast and colour accuracy from centre to edge whether working at macro distances or further from the subject, and pairs particularly well with the high-resolution sensor of the SL3-P.

True 1:1 Macro Photography

A minimum focusing distance of 30cm and a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:1 allows subjects to be captured at life size on the sensor. Fine textures, surface detail and intricate subjects become clearly resolvable, making the lens particularly well suited to nature, product, jewellery and fine art photography. The 100mm focal length also provides comfortable working distance between the camera and subject, which can be beneficial when photographing delicate objects, insects or subjects that are easily disturbed.

Portrait And Telephoto Versatility

Beyond macro work, the 100mm focal length produces a natural portrait perspective with strong subject separation. The combination of a moderate telephoto perspective, f/2.8 aperture and nine-blade diaphragm delivers smooth background rendering while maintaining natural proportions. Compatibility with Leica 1.4x and 2x teleconverters extends the focal length to 140mm and 200mm respectively for applications where additional reach is required.

Autofocus And Handling

A precise autofocus system with a focus limiter allows photographers to restrict the focusing range, improving speed and efficiency when working within a defined subject distance. At 137.6mm long and weighing approximately 862g including the supplied lens hood, the lens remains manageable on SL bodies while maintaining a comfortable working distance from close-up subjects.

Build Quality

Full-metal aluminium construction with dust and splash protection and an Aqua-Dura hydrophobic front coating make the lens suitable for outdoor and location use. An E67 filter thread supports standard filter systems, and firmware updates install directly through compatible Leica camera bodies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does this lens compare to other 100mm macro lenses on the market?

Most 100mm macro lenses are designed primarily for close-up work and offer modest optical correction at standard shooting distances. The APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL combines true 1:1 reproduction with full apochromatic correction, meaning chromatic aberration is controlled throughout the focus range rather than only at infinity. This makes it more versatile for photographers who need consistently high optical performance across all working distances.

Will I be able to use the APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm with teleconverters?

Yes. The lens is compatible with Leica 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, extending its effective focal length to 140mm and 200mm respectively. This increases working distance from the subject and extends reach for nature and wildlife photography without requiring a separate telephoto lens.

Is this compatible with the SL3-P autofocus system?

Yes. The lens communicates fully with the SL3-P's hybrid autofocus system and supports phase-detection AF, subject recognition and Intelligent AF modes. The built-in focus limiter further improves autofocus efficiency when working within a defined subject distance range.

Is it the first macro lens in the SL system?

Yes. It is the first dedicated macro lens in Leica’s SL lineup and was introduced alongside the SL3-P as part of the continued expansion of the SL system.

Can I use this for product and commercial photography?

Yes. The combination of 1:1 reproduction, apochromatic correction and high edge-to-edge detail makes it well suited to product, jewellery and fine art reproduction work. Paired with the SL3-P's Multishot mode, it can produce exceptionally detailed files for large-format printing and commercial reproduction.

Is the lens suitable for portrait photography?

Yes. The 100mm focal length provides a flattering perspective for portraiture, while the f/2.8 aperture and nine-blade diaphragm help separate subjects from the background. Its dual role as a macro and portrait lens is one of the key reasons it is being developed.

Leica APO-Marco-Elmarit-SL 100 f/2.8 Specifications

What’s in the Box

• Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100 f/2.8
• Lens hood
• Front cover (lens cap)
• Rear cover
• Lens pouch