Re: [Leica]Elmar 2.8/50 Collapsible

[TTAbrahams <TTAbrahams@aol.com>]

Steve, I have 2 of the 50/2,8, both black. It is an amazing lens, wide open it
is slightly softer than the 50/2 but by the time you hit 5,6/8 I cant tell the
difference between the 50/2,8 and the 50/2. If anything, the contrast sems a
bit higher on the 50/2,8 ( at least compared to my Summicron 50/2 from the
mid-80's). The 50/2,8 has one of the quickest focussing mounts in the Leica
range. You can snap it from infinity to close focus very fast AND the aperture
ring does not rotate. The latter was one of the main reason why I never could
succesfully get along with the earlier version of the 50/2,8. This lens also
has one of the niftiest lenshoods ever made, when not in use it can do double
duty as a collar for adapting your 50 Focotar-2 in your Focomat-1C.
 I have also heard a rumour that they might close down production of that
lens, it would be a pity as it is a great "pocket" lens and works like a
charm. I use mine on an old M2 and with the lens collapsed it nicely fits in a
jacket or photovest pocket. It also is a far less intimidating lens to aim at
people, sometimes if you aim a 75 or a Nocti people almost duck. Beware, dogs
like their own reflections in a Nocti, a very fast black lab puppy fell in
love with himself and licked the front element of mine before I could pull the
camera away.I think the 50/2,8 is better for that kind of shooting, the
reflection is smaller and they probably would only swipe their tongue over the
hood.
Enjoy the 50/2,8,
Tom A
P.S. Now, just in case someone ask, why does he have two of those lenses.
Well, I did order one from one dealer, who told me " I do not have one in
stock, but I can order it for you" I said yes and as times went by I forgot
about it and ordered one again from another dealer. Guess what, they both
shipped the lenses within one week of each other!!! After having tried them
both, I decided to keep them both too.Hell, one day i might build a stereo
Leica!!!