Re:R 80 1.4 Summilux

[ted grant <75501.3002@compuserve.com>]

Chip wrote:

<<<I have come across this used from time to time....Is their more than one
version? advantages, version to avoid?  How does this compare to the 100mm
APO?>>>>


Hi Chip,

Technically I believe the glass is the same since it came out, the rest of
the lens has changed in outer configuration only.

I don't think you can compare it to the APO 100 macro as they are such
different lenses for different purpose.

But the 80 is an extremely fine piece of glass and built like a Tiger tank
(mine is anyway) as I hammered it onto the concrete a few years back.  The
front was badly bent, the glass was fine and the great tech who looked
after fixing it, just straightened it out and I still use it.

As far as using it at 1.4....you have to see what it does to believe it!:)

Great effect! as you are shooting in light where others fear to tread and
if you put it on an R8 it looks brighter through the camera than to the
eye! (Well Ok sort of!)  :) 

If you find one used and the price is right go for it!  If you don't like
it you can always sell it. I would be surprised if you did.

Tom Donavon tried one at the Leica Kennebunkport seminar and shot some at
1.4 with nice colour samples by low level available light, that were very
interesting and sharp as a razor. He was so impressed he ordered a new one!

So I can't say much more than that, when a shooter like Tom trys and buys!
:) I think that says it all.

ted