6-bit encoder kit for Leica M lenses, Leica SL

• Lets the camera recognize the lens: You code your manual lens yourself – your digital Leica then knows which focal length is mounted without you having to set it manually with every lens change.
• Affordable alternative to other coding methods: Clip on, color in, let dry – that’s all there is to self-coding.
• EXIF data and image corrections included: The camera stores focal length and lens in the metadata and applies vignetting and distortion correction.
• Important for image stabilizer: On SL2 and SL3, the IBIS only works precisely with the correctly stored focal length.
• Includes matching pen: Conventional markers shine too much for the sensor in the bayonet; the tested matte black Edding 8400 is included.
• Clip-on stencil, no drilling: The encoder clips onto the bayonet and serves as a template for coloring the dots; the coding can be removed residue-free if needed.

Compatibility

Fits all lenses with Leica M bayonet, whether older Leica, Voigtländer, or Zeiss. On the camera side, all digital Leica M as well as the SL and Q with M adapter read the code. Current Leica lenses are coded from the factory. You can find the code for your lens in the coding table below.

Scope of delivery

• Standard: 1x 6-bit Encoder Kit + 1x Special Pen
• Set: Standard + 1x Red Dot Cover (2-piece set)
• Complete: Set + 1x Quick Focus Tab

Technical details

• Encoder material: technical plastic
• Fit: designed for Leica M bayonets
• Marker: Edding 8400 (selected for minimal reflection)
• Manufacture: Made in Germany

Description

You do the Leica 6-bit coding yourself with this encoder kit and code your manual M-bayonet lenses, whether older Leica, Voigtländer, or Zeiss. Afterwards, your digital Leica (M, SL, Q with adapter) recognizes the focal length, stores it in the EXIF data, and applies internal image corrections.

We learned from the pen: Many customers had problems with conventional felt-tip pens because their ink often shines and reflects the sensor light in the bayonet instead of absorbing it. That’s why the Edding 8400 is included. It’s matte enough for the optical sensor to reliably read the code.

The encoder clips onto the bayonet and serves as a stencil for coloring the dots, no drilling required. The coding holds up in everyday use and can be removed residue-free if needed.
Tip: If there is a screw at a coding position, simply fill it with a dab of white paint and then paint over it black – if the code requires it.

Instructions for coding

In the guide, we show you how to use the encoder, which codes fit your lens, and what to watch out for: Coding Leica M lenses.

Coding table

Choose in the table the lens that is closest to yours (focal length and maximum aperture).

Legend: ⬜ = White (no color/metal) | ⬛ = Black (painted)

The complete 6-bit coding table (49 lenses) with illustrated step-by-step instructions is available as a PDF to print on the Downloads page – in case you want to check the coding directly on the lens.

Special cases: Summilux-M 35 f/1.4 „Steel Rim": Code like Summilux-M 35 f/1.4 ASPH (011101); Thambar-M 90 f/2.2 (Soft-Focus): best left uncoded or like Elmarit-M 90 f/2.8 (100110). Current Leica lenses are coded from the factory. Source: lavidaleica.com / Match Technical (community data, no guarantee).