RE: [Leica] R wide angles

["Jay Coleman" <jaycoleman@nyc.rr.com>]

Peter:

The new 19 is the best, and most expensive of the lenses you mention.  Its
price on the used market has dropped somewhat recently, perhaps in
anticipation of the upcoming 21-35 zoom.  The next best is probably the 21;
it is also more compact than the old (or new) 19.  It has a somewhat
different look, especially in color as it was made by Schneider.  I like the
look, but you should see for yourself.  It helps to stop down but I found
the lens perfectly usable at f4.  The old 19 is also a good lens.  You
should see which angle of view you prefer; 19 is wider than 21 by a
noticeable if not huge margin.

Buy the new 19 used if you can afford it and don't mind the size.

Jay Coleman

- -----Original Message-----
From: owner-leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us
[mailto:owner-leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us]On Behalf Of Peter Zak
Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2001 1:55 PM
To: Leica Users Group
Subject: [Leica] R wide angles


I'm looking for some feedback on the 21mm SA f4, 19mm Elmarit old and new in
R mount

I've heard great things about the SA, but also that is may be necessary to
stop this down to f8 to get optimum results, what's it like wide open and,
how does it compare with the later glass.

The old 19mm is quite bulky - do the results justify ?

Then again there is always the new 19mm ?

Any feedback welcome.

Thanks in advance,

Peter Zak.