The Macro-Elmar-M 90mm f/4 is a distinctive and compact lens in the Leica M-mount collection, recognized for its retractable structure and compatibility with the Macro-Adapter-M, facilitating close-up photography. It employs a straightforward yet efficient optical configuration consisting of four elements arranged in four groups, ensuring consistent sharpness and uniform illumination across various aperture settings and focusing distances. Additionally, a multi-layer anti-reflective coating has been applied to each element to minimize lens flare and ghosting, thereby enhancing contrast and color accuracy. The manual focus mechanism allows for working with subjects positioned as close as 2.6 feet, achieving a reproduction ratio of 1:6.7.
When paired with the optional Macro-Adapter-M and utilized on a camera equipped with live view, this lens can reach a minimum focusing distance of 16.1 inches, providing a reproduction ratio of 1:2. Furthermore, its retractable design ensures that infinity focus is preserved when the Macro-Adapter-M is in use.