How Much Is a Used Leica Elmarit-M 90mm Worth? (2026 Price Guide)

The modern Elmarit-M (1990 to 2008) is the safer used buy because it has a robust built-in retractable hood, modern coatings, and does not suffer the internal-haze tendency that affects many <a href="/price-guide/tele-elmarit-m-90/">Tele-Elmarit-M</a> Thin samples. The Tele-Elmarit is smaller and lighter if pocketability matters most. For sharpness and reliable condition, the modern Elmarit-M is usually the better pick.

Check the glass for haze and any element separation, and confirm the aperture blades are dry and snap cleanly. Test the built-in retractable hood, since the locking mechanism can wear loose or fail to stay extended. Run the focus through its full travel to the 1 meter close limit to confirm it is smooth, and verify the rangefinder cam moves the patch correctly.

Yes, it mounts and focuses on digital M cameras. Later examples may already carry factory 6-bit coding, but earlier ones can be coded or set manually so the body logs the lens. The 90mm frame is one of the easier telephoto lengths to focus on a rangefinder, and the lens also adapts cleanly to Leica SL and other mirrorless bodies with an M adapter.

The Elmarit-M is a stop slower at f/2.8 but is smaller, lighter, and less expensive than the <a href="/price-guide/summicron-m-90/">Summicron-M 90mm</a> f/2, while delivering high sharpness and contrast. Choose the Summicron if you need the extra stop and shallower depth of field for portraits, and choose the Elmarit-M if you want a compact, sharp 90 at lower cost and weight.