Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/09/06

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Noct vs 50 'lux
From: John Collier <jbcollier@powersurfr.com>
Date: Thu, 06 Sep 2001 07:45:00 -0600

Due to the recent redesign of the Summilux-R, many people have speculated
that a new M version is on the way. However, Leica has stated that they are
not going to be redesigning the Summilux-M anytime soon. While optically
identical to the sixties version, the latest version benefits from improved
manufacturing, coating and assembly techniques. The problem with redesigning
the Summilux-M is that the limiting factor is the size of the front element.
Larger front elements result in more viewfinder obstruction (note the many
complaints against the Noctilux on this account). The latest version has a
mount that focuses to 0.7m and a built in hood. That is as good as it gets
for now (which is pretty darn good indeed).

A brief article on the Summilux-M is available on the LHSA website:

http://www.lhsa.org/

Click on "Viewfinder" and scroll down to the "Volume 31 No. 3, 1998" menu
and select "The 50mm f/1.4 Summilux By Dick Gilcreast"

John Collier


> From: "John R. Fulton Jr." <JRFjr@compuserve.com>
> 
> Quick question.
> Is there a new 50mm f1.4 Summilux?
> I understood that the "old" one was being redesigned/updated but
> never caught up with whether it was true.
> So, are we talking "old", "new" or what?

Replies: Reply from "John R. Fulton Jr." <JRFjr@compuserve.com> (Re: [Leica] Noct vs 50 'lux)