RE: [Leica] Vario-Elmar-R 1.4/35-70 - How good??? (also some FS)

[Jim Laurel <jplaurel@microsoft.com>]

Richard,
I use this lens once in a while, mainly for hiking, as it provides a good
range for that, and has good close focus capabilities.  It's also light
weight.  It's a nice, light, versatile combination with the R6.2.  In
comparison with the Canon EF 28-70 2.8L, it seems to control flare much
better, but contrast and sharpness seem comparable.

My single complaint about this lens is that the front element rotates, so
using a polarizer with it is very inconvenient, particularly with the lens
hood in place.  I often use a polarizer for scenics while hiking, so this is
a significant problem for me.

I believe our own Erwin Puts is currently preparing a test report on this
lens.  I'm looking forward to seeing his results.

Best Regards,
Jim Laurel

- -----Original Message-----
From: Richard W. Hemingway [mailto:rheming@ibm.net]
Sent: Wednesday, June 02, 1999 8:07 AM
To: Leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us
Subject: [Leica] Vario-Elmar-R 1.4/35-70 - How good??? (also some FS)


Luggers,

I am thinking of partially going back to an R8 (keeping the M6, 35/1.4 ASPH
and 50/1.0 Noct.)  My thought is to get the above zoom.  These two cameras
and three lenses would make a pretty good and versatile travel outfit.  (My
wife can also use the R8)

Query: does anyone have this lens and how good is it and how well do you
like it??  I understand it has an aspherical element.

Thanks in advance.

(BTW I will be selling off a chrome M6 body - two years old-, 24/2.8 ASPH-M
lens with finder, and 90/2.8 Elmarit-M lens - all very close to mint.  Both
lenses are super.  I think that the 90 is the sharpest lens that I own)

Dick Hemingway
Plano, TX