[Leica] New ZM Tessar

[marcsmall at comcast.net (Marc James Small)]

Bear in mind that Zeiss Ikon determined on the 
8.5cm focal length for the medium long-focus lens 
before Leitz went for the 9cm and both concerns 
have remained loyal to their roots for more than 
three-quarters of a century.  The differences are 
minimal -- I believe that the actual focal length 
of that 85mm lens is probably 87.5mm and that of 
the 90mm around 91.5mm, but I'd have to look it up to confirm this.

I have taken a LOT of shots over the years with a 
2/8.5cm CZJ LTM Sonnar on my M's.  I have also 
used every variant of the 90mm Leitz lenses but, 
in the end, only have kept a 4/9cm collapsible 
Elmar and a 2/90 APO-Summicron.  There is no 
framing issue even with chromes.  (Yes, I also 
occasionally shoot with a 4cm CZJ Tessar, and the 
50mm frame-lines work quite well.)I shall not be 
rushing out to buy any of these new CZ ZM lenses 
though I am glad that they are available.

Marc


msmall@aya.yale.edu
Cha robh b?s fir gun ghr?s fir!