Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1996/07/27

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To: owner-leica-users <owner-leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us>
Subject: RE: 50mm F:2 Summicron-DR (with eyes) ... Opinions?
From: Thomas Pindelski <ThomasP@POSTOFFICE.nacm.com>
Date: Sat, 27 Jul 96 10:24:00 PDT
Encoding: 63 TEXT


I owned one for many years - it was the lens with which I won Photography 
Magazine's 'Photographer of the Year' (UK publication) in the '70s, on my 
M3.

I sold the DR five years ago and bought a used Wetzlar black Summicron, the 
last line with the removeable lens head.  It has six elements rather than 
seven and seems contrastier - like one paper grade harder on B&W prints.

My reason for sale, however, was not the increase in contrast - both are 
superb lenses at all apertures, but the DR's incedible weight.  I would only 
recommend buying it if you really expect to use the close-up 
range/spectacles frequently.

Otherwise go for the contemporary non-DR Summicron (same optics) or for 
something later.  It seems the chrome non-DRs are now selling for as much or 
more than the black 6 element designs.  I would expect to pay $550-$650 for 
a mint example.

The six element black design has one other advantage - it focusses closer 
than the non-DR 7 element design, but you need an M2/4/6 to have coupling of 
the RF all the way down. As I recall, the M3 only couples to ~38", the M2 
28".  I seem to recall that the DR goes to 19". I would guess the greater 
use of aluminum in the 6 element mount will make it lighter than the non-DR 
7 element.

By the way, if you do decide to buy the DR, ensure that there is no mount 
wobble at the fullest extension.  I also remember reading that the glasses 
are 'matched' to the lens but I'm not sure how fungible they are.

Oh! yes, I still own the M3!

ThomasP@nacm.com
 ----------
From: owner-leica-users
To: leica-users
Subject: 50mm F:2 Summicron-DR (with eyes) ... Opinions?
Date: Saturday, July 27, 1996 5:46AM

Has anyone had experience with the 50mm F:2 Summicron-DR (with eyes)?

I am seeking opinions, either positive or negative, regarding the lens.
A month or so ago there was some discussion regarding the lens, however
it appeared to center on what the creature should be called, not how
well it performs and the uses to which it might be put.

In any event, I am considering it. Prices (used) appear to be in the
$450-$500 range for a unit advertised with a whole bunch of plus marks.
"Mint" would obviously be better, however an older lense and "Mint"
often do not go together!

The thoughts, and experiences, of those on the Leica List would be
greatly appreciated.

This would be a "second" 50mm lense. In the 50mm range I use a 50mm
F:1.4 Summilux ... and am happy with it.

Thanks in advance!

Glenn

Glenn Thrall
gthrall@ix.netcom.com