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Leica 35 f2 vs 35 f14

V

vishalvora

Well-Known Member
Dear all,

It seems that no one wants to sell me a 35mm f2! I have found a late pre-ASPH 35mm f1.4 in great shape but just wanted to know if there was a a real difference in sharpness. The extra stop of light would be good but I really just want a nice compact lens. Any thoughts would be much appreciated.

Vishal.
 
Dear Vishal,
The 40mm f:2 Summicron that was made for the Leica CL is an extremely compact lens very similar in size to the pre-asph 35mm summicron. The lens is relatively easy to find for no more than $300 (the Minolta version can be found new for $325). Of corse, it is 40mm and not 35, but I have read somewhere that the quality is not terribly inferior. I like mine very much.

Stephen Gandy's cameraquest website has been most informative for me regarding all things Leica:

http://www.cameraquest.com/mlenses.htm

As compact lenses go, the new Cosina-Voigtlander 35mm looks as compact as the classic Leica lens...Of course, it is not Leica and it is f:2.5. A new version ($100 more expensive than the previous one) just came out:
http://www.cameraquest.com/voigtpma2004.htm


I would like to have a 35mm Summilux, but they are really expensive. Good luck!

Juan
 
Dear Vishal,

Like all lenses you will not notice any difference from f/2.8 and the extra stop is nice to have in reserve when needed. At f/1.4 it is low contrast and not as good as its 50mm brother, however still a very good lens.

Justin
 
Hi Vishal,
Many years ago when my 35mm F2 was broken, I made the mistake of buying the F1.4. In my opinion its a terrible lens - great for low light, but very flat with no punch. The F1.4 ASPH was much better, but neither of 1.4s got close to the quality I got from my cheap little Canadian 35mm F2. If you can wait, I suggest you do until you find one. Around a week ago Jacobs in New Oxford Street (London) had a 35mm F2. Give them a call and say I sent you; ask for Donal and you may even get a deal!

Edmond
 
Hey Edmond,

I know Donal and Barry from Jacobs, I have been told that this lens is on loan to someone else, they are trying before buying! Thanks for the info though, I'll keep looking. I really want the f2, Aperture have a few f1.4s and one f2 ASPH but I want the mark 4 (pre-ASPH) one.

Many thanks,

Vishal.
 
...what a small world!!!

Be patient
happy.gif
and you will be rewarded with the f2!

Edmond
 
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