Xenon Lens Oddity

[Leica_Guy_Dallas]

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Hello,

I have 2 Xenon lenses made in 1936 and 1939 (see photos). Both were just CLA by DAG Camera and we noticed the difference in the class between the two. The 1939 model appears to have a small circle etched on the inside face of the outer lens. The circle, along with its reflection can be seen on several of the interior elements. Along with this oddity, the outer housing has 2 small notches cut at opposite ends, maybe to hold some sort of filter or hood. I am trying to find answers. I have looked through Jim Lagers 'An Illustrated History' Vol II Lenses but did not find any information.

Hopefully someone will read this and have some insight.

Thanks

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[jc_braconi]

From the pictures I can see, it seems that the two notches are not diametrical opposed, am I wrong ?
I have not my Xenon sunshade close to me, may be there is a relation to them.

[Leica_Guy_Dallas]

You are correct, they are not diametrically opposed, which is odd.

These same notches or the tiny 1 mm etching in the center do not appear on my other Xenon from 1936. I have the XOONS lens shade and SOOPD folding shade that both fit the Xenon and the notches do not seem to have anything g to do with either shade. I do not have the XIOOM shade but am rather confident it is identical to the SOOPD.

[Biotar]

From my point of view, these are service grooves to be able to release stuck rings with a tool.

[dg4mgr]

did a quick google image search on Leitz Xenon, and could only find lenses without the notches. Maybe your 1939 Xenon has been modified for a special purpose? Anyone aware of a second one with notches?

[JonH]

No - mine, which is has a S/No. 1,200 more recent to the strangely, and intriguingly, 'notched' and element marked one here has nothing like this one. Good luck