Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/03/13

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Subject: [Leica] Re: Summaron comments solicited
From: "Gary Todoroff" <datamaster@humboldt1.com>
Date: Mon, 13 Mar 2000 17:20:05 -0800

Hi Mike -

My first Leica lens was a 35/2.8 Summaron on a black M2, purchased used when
I worked in Stockholm many years ago. I was amazed at the quality, and
thought all Leica lenses were this good. In fact, I was then disappointed by
the early 50/2.8 Elmar and 90/4 Elmar in comparison.  When a used 1st
version 35 black Summicron came my way a couple months later, I traded the
35/2.8 for a 50 Elmar. Turns out the Summicron had numerous front element
scratches, and was actually softer than the old Summaron.

I now have a 2.8 Summaron again (M3 style with the attached finder) and am
thrilled with the brilliance of the B&W negs from this lens. Altho I have
not done any strict testing, I just know that there is something special
about the resolution and contrast of the 2.8 Summaron.

It's also a pretty  little lens and makes a neat  looking package on an M2.
(With M3, the goggles are a bit much on the small lens and it feels a little
bulky). If anyone were wanting a great "starter" Leica with minimum
investment, it would be hard to beat the Summaron/M2 (altho a CL with 40mm
Summicron is a great package, too - I just did some shots today with one
while out on a sunny early morning walk)

Regards,
Gary Todoroff
Tree LUGger

> Mike Johnston wrote:
> >
> > I'm interested in hearing comments about either of the old Summaron-M
> > lenses, either the f/2.8 or the f/3.5, either M-mount or screwmount.
> > Anybody used one? Like it? Dislike it? Feelings and opinions much
> > appreciated, on- or off-list.
> >
> > Thanks--
> >
> > --Mike
>