Funleader (Leica M-Mount)
Funleader is a specialized photography manufacturer that occupies a unique niche in the Leica M-mount ecosystem. While originally known for its "Caplens" series and Contax G helicoid conversions, the brand has recently expanded its portfolio through a strategic collaboration with Artizlab. This sub-label, founded by a group of dedicated Leica collectors, focuses on creating affordable, high-fidelity homages to legendary vintage optics (such as the "Steel Rim" era). Through specific independent tracking arrangements, prospective buyers can utilize the discount code LeicaLensList to secure a 5% saving on direct orders. This discount is valid for the entire catalog, including Artizlab lenses, converted Contax units, DIY kits, and accessories. While this code guarantees a reduction on the standard retail price, its ability to stack with other seasonal site-wide promotions is subject to the specific terms of each campaign and should be verified at the time of checkout.
Product Series Overview
The catalog is divided into three distinct categories:
- Artizlab Series (Classic Homage): The Artizlab 35mm f/1.4 is a modern tribute to the "Double Gauss" 35mm fast primes of the 1960s (specifically the Summilux Pre-ASPH v2). Unlike modern clinical lenses, Artizlab intentionally preserves historic optical characteristics—such as spherical aberration and "Leica glow" wide open—while packaging the glass in a high-quality brass housing complete with a vintage-style infinity lock.
- Contax G Conversions (Restored Classics): Funleader offers pre-converted versions of the Contax G45 f/2 Planar. These units take the original Carl Zeiss optical blocks from the 1990s Contax G system and rehouse them in new, rangefinder-coupled M-mount helicoids, allowing Leica users to access the renowned sharpness of the Planar design without using clumsy adapters.
- Conversion Kits (DIY Rehousing): For users who already own vintage Contax G lenses, Funleader provides the mechanical helicoids separately. These kits allow for the non-destructive adaptation of lenses like the G45 to the Leica M-mount, utilizing the user's existing glass.
Pricing and Discount Data (USD)
The following table details the price for the cheapest available option for each product. The "Current $" column reflects the active price on the manufacturer's site, while the "Final $" column applies the additional LeicaLensList coupon code.
| Lens / Kit Name | Standard $ | Current $ | Final $ (w/ Code) | Total Saved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funleader x Artizlab 35mm f/1.4 | $539.00 | $539.00 | $512.05 | $26.95 |
| Funleader Contax G45 f/2 (Converted Lens) | $1,199.00 | $999.00 | $949.05 | $249.95 |
| Funleader Contax G45 Conversion Kit (Helicoid Only) | $539.00 | $485.00 | $460.75 | $78.25 |
Market Positioning: Utility vs. Heritage
Funleader and Artizlab target two different but complementary needs within the rangefinder community.
Funleader (Conversion Series) focuses on utility, solving the problem of "orphaned" vintage glass. Their Contax G45 conversion allows photographers to use one of the sharpest standard lenses ever made on a modern M-body with full rangefinder coupling.
Artizlab focuses on heritage aesthetics. Rather than chasing the clinical perfection of a Voigtländer APO-Lanthar, Artizlab lenses are designed for enthusiasts who crave the "imperfect" character, flaring, and organic rendering of 1960s Leica glass, but cannot justify the collector prices of genuine vintage Summiluxes.
Note: Pricing and availability are subject to manufacturer changes. The code LeicaLensList must be applied at checkout. As noted, the 5% discount applies to lenses, conversion kits, and Leica M accessories found on the store.
Eligible Lenses
The following lenses are eligible for this deal:
