[Leica] Tell Me About This Lens and Charlton Heston

[Buzz Hausner <Buzz@marianmanor.org>]

Sounds like one of my two favorite lenses, the "Skinny" Tele-Elmarit (my
other favorite is the pre-aspheric 35 Summicron).  The Skinny T-E is a much
maligned lens, but in my opinion and experience it is wonderful.  Small,
light in weight (which are among the main reasons I lug Leicas), and quite
sharp enough for all but the most hideously critical photographers.  I
prefer to carry lenses which slip into a pocket as I abhor gadget bags and
tote the minimum kit.  There have been some reports of fungus on the rear
elements of these lenses which is a terminal disease.  However, a recent LUG
survey (check the archives) revealed that the fungus was not epidemic, at
least among subscribers.  A lens that has been fungus free since...oh...1986
should remain so.  Some people consider the Skinny T-E to be "flarey."  I
don't.

I also prefer lenses with the old clip-on lens shades which will break away
when slammed into a wall and absorb the blow.  These shades will also not
collapse on their own and are generally deeper and, in my opinion, more
effective than the stupid pull-out shades which Leica should abandon.

To quote Charlton Heston-- something I never thought I would do-- they can
have my Skinny Tele-Elmarit when, "they pry it from my cold, dead fingers!"

	Buzz Hausner

- -----Original Message-----
From: Johnny Deadman [mailto:deadman@jukebox.demon.co.uk]
Sent: Tuesday, June 06, 2000 8:32 PM
To: Leica Users digest
Subject: [Leica] tell me about this lens


Tele-Elmarit 90/2.8 that I just picked up for not much. Made in Canada, no.
3378280, glass as clear as a bell. Hood looks like a condom, but tiny and
very very light. Had to be a bargain at the price I paid, but what should I
know?


- --
Johnny Deadman

photos:      http://www.pinkheadedbug.com
music:       http://www.jukebox.demon.co.uk