LEICA 50mm f/2 SUMMICRON-M v4 and v5 Designers
Dr. Walter Mandler, the renowned designer of Leica lenses and CEO of Ernst Leitz Canada, discovered long ago the secret to producing a high-quality 50mm lens. As a result, even the most affordable 50mm prime lens boasts optical performance that outshines many other brands.
Modern Models
Most Leica 50mm Summicron lenses are considered a great value for their price. Nonetheless, it’s important to keep in mind that newer iterations of the same lens tend to offer improved build quality. Thus, when making a purchase, it may be wise to factor in this consideration.
v4 = v5
Leica currently offers multiple versions of their 50mm Summicron lens, including the v1 collapsible Summicron, v2 rigid, v3 High Leg, v4, and v5 Mandler. The v5 model was introduced in 1994. While you might discern variations in image quality between the v1 and v2 iterations, you’re unlikely to notice any difference between the v4 and v5.
Wide Maximum Apertures
To me, the most thrilling aspect of 50mm lenses is their wide maximum apertures. With an aperture of f/2, the Leica Summicron lens enables you to capture images with a shallow depth-of-field. For instance, the photo displayed here was shot at f/2 using a 50cron v4 lens.
Street Photography
The Leica Summicron 50mm f/2 v4 is a great lens to take with you on a day out. Its focal length makes it a handy choice for street photography when used on a Leica M camera. Additionally, it can produce impressive portraits, although some distortion may be noticeable.
Summilux?
However, there’s another aspect to consider. A Summilux lens boasts an aperture of f/1.4, which is over a stop wider than the Summicron lens. This can make a substantial difference when shooting in low light conditions, as you can open up the lens without having to raise the ISO. It’s worth noting, though, that Summilux lenses come with a high price tag.
This 50mm Summicron stands out due to both its compact and well-proven optical design, as well as its legendary focal length which can provide natural perspectives. Production period: 1979-current Code: 11819(black), 11825 (chrome 11826(black), 11816(chrome), 11624(titanium), from 1994 with built-in extensible lenshood 11619 V-Summicron, screw mount Serial # 2,909. 101- current Total production: n/a Maximum aperture: 1: 2.0 Focal length(nominal): 50mm Angle:45 Minimum distance: 7Ocm Weight: 195 grams(black), with built-in lens hood: 240 grams black, 335 grams chrome, 335 grams titanium Filter: E39 Recorded sales figures: na
Leave a Reply