Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/04/14
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I have the second formula (1983 vintage) summilux and a Nokton. My first impression of the nokton is that the boke is not to my liking. If I get time I will do comparison and post the results. The summilux is a bit battered and has never had a cla so the test will favour the Nokton anyway. My only concern over the Nokton is that at this price sample variation is a real possibility so this will hardly be a rigorous test. My Nokton has an exquisite feel and finish BTW WAY nicer than current NiCanolta products. The second computation Summilux M is the same design family as the 75 Summilux FWIW. Assuming that all improvements in technology result in improved product performance is unrealistic. In the case of most products, be they VCRs, CD players, cameras or lenses technology has been used to reduce manufacturing costs and increase profits whilst holding quality to the level that will not upset consumers. Very many products were actually better engineered in the 70's and 80's than today. Aspherical lenses can now be moulded so they are cheaper to make than lenses using more elements or exotic glasses, whilst producing equal or better performance. Goodness knows how much it would cost today to produce a second generation (rigid) 7 element summicron, let alone the DR. Probably double the current 6 element (4th computation) with 4 planar surfaces. Erwin says the new one is better, but even those who think (as I do) that the DR is the ultimate, accept that the latest Summicron is a stellar performer. cheers Frank