[Leica] 35 Summilux...

[phong at doan-ltd.com (Phong)]

Frank,

Let me enter the foray and add to the confusion :-)

I had a 35mm Summilux pre-Asph, 35mm Summicron pre-Apsh,
35mm Summicron Asph, and 35mm Summilux Apsh.

In the end, I sold them all, except the 35mm Asph
Summilux.  I miss the pre-Asph 35mm Summicron most
though I would miss not having 1.4 more.

The qualities of the Summilux Asph are superlative
in terms of resolution, contrast, flare resistance, 
wide-open performance.  I will be trying this lens
hoodless, in the manner of John Collier, and see how
I might even like this lens better.

The pre-asph summilux, while quite a competent performer,
is just not in the same league.  The minimum focus distance 
of 1m also is a big disadvantage to me.  Contrast and flare
wide  open is poor.

If I did not already have the 35mm Summilux Asph, I might
consider the CV 35mm f1.2 lens.

For what it's worth.

- Phong


> >From: "Frank Filippone" <red735i@earthlink.net>
> >
> >The last version 35/2 ( Version 4) has an inherent weakness in the 
> materials
> >used in the ring that holds the shade on.  The ring is made from 
> some form
> >of plastic, and it breaks.  Repair is possible ( $350), using a 
> replacement
> >ring.  Best off with a version 3 35 Summicron.  Same glass, not the same
> >issues with materials.
> >
> >I have gotten so many wonderful opinions...... a lot of them are really
> >pretty good, but most contrast in their opinions.  My current 
> thinking is 
> a
> >late version 35 pre ASPH, test it against my 35/2 pre ASPH and 35/1.4 
> ASPH,
> >and decide from that testing if the lens is sufficient that I 
> can sell of 
> my
> >2 lenses, and keep just the pre ASPH 1.4.  I would like to get down to 1
> >lens at this FL.....
> >
> >Frank Filippone
> >red735i@earthlink.net