Re: [Leica] Newbie- 35 & 50 lens choices and M6 vs G2

[Dan Cardish <dcardish@sympatico.ca>]

The 50 Summicron that I own is the near focus variety, dating from the
1960s.  It is an excellent lens, fully capable opf taking first rate
photographs.  And it is available used  at very reasonable prices.   And
according to Erwin Puts, subsequent versions of the 50 Summicron are even
better, so that basically you can't go wrong with any 50 Summicron.   Just
get one the best suits your budget.  You won't be sorry about the quality.

The version prior to the current 50 has a detachable hood and focusing tab;
some people prefer it for these factors, but I believe that optically it is
identical to the current version.

Can't comment on the Cosinas, or 35s.

dan c.

  At 11:09 PM 18-03-01 -0500, John M. Holcomb wrote:
>Hi All
>
>I'm new on LUG and looking for some advice. I currently own a Contax G2
>outfit with which I've never been completely satisfied. I often use the G's
>90 lens wide open and up close, and I find the AF is sometimes taxed beyond
>its limit. The G's "return to infinity, then refocus for each shot"
>mechanism is also really annoying. I will admit that I've been spoiled by
>the quality of the Zeiss lenses, though, and would be dissatisfied with any
>of lesser quality after getting used to Zeiss quality.
>
>So I've decided to get an M6 35-50-90 outfit. I've done a little reading
>(and lurking), and have settled on the 90 2.8 Elmarit-M. My choices for 50
>and 35 are still open. My question is what are the best 35 and 50 lenses for
>about $800 or less, used, in nice, clean condition. My inclination is to buy
>a pre-asph 35 Summicron, and a recent model 50 Summicron with detachable
>hood, as Steven Gandy suggests. I would appreciate any thoughts or input.
>
>How do the Cosina 35 1.7 and 50 1.5 lenses compare with the Leica lenses
>mentioned above? I know this might be heresy, but can't resist asking.
>
>Finally, are there any current or former Contax G users out there who would
>care to comment on switching to Leica, or adding Leica to their "arsenal."
>
>Thanks in advance
>
>John Holcomb
>
>