[Leica] Which 35mm 'cron or 'lux?

[red735i at earthlink.net (Frank Filippone)]

Here's the tradeoffs.....

There are 4 lenses involved.... The F1.4 NON-ASPH and the ASPH; The F2
NON-ASPH and the ASPH.

USED Costs..... from that auction place.....F1.4ASPH $1400-1600; F1.4
$900-1100; F2ASPH $900-1100; F2 $550-750

Filter Size... I forget the details, but the weight and filter sizes are in
proportion.. the heaviest uses the biggest filters, the lightest, smaller
filters.

Weight from Heaviest to lightest..... 1.4ASPH; 2ASPH; 1.4; 2  ( Figure the
F2 and 1.4 are almost the same weight.  The ASPH versions are heavier, with
the 1.4 much heavier than the F2 "Classic")  You could look these weights up
to be accurate....

Performance:  The 2 ASPH lenses are incredible.  Almost a match for each
other.  The F2 is a great lens, the 1.4 is less than these.  Look in the
archives for the "testing" I did to prove this to myself.

OK.. confused yet?

Here is the REAL difference...... If you want the best performance on the
planet, and to use the highest shutter speed you can, AND you shoot in dark
places, get the 1.4 ASPH.  If you are dollar challenged, get the F2 Classic,
and never look back.  If you want speed and light, the 1.4 classic is the
lens for you.  If you want incredible optical quality, but want a little
less weight, and save a few bucks, get the F2ASPH.

If you are buying new, the choice is price and weight driven, performance on
the 2 ASPH lenses is about the same.. off the scale good!.  The F1.4 ASPH is
an extra $1000...... but you can operate it at a higher shutter speed.

So why are you getting the lens?  What scenario fits your bill the best?

Frank Filippone
red735i@earthlink.net


With modern emulsions, TMY, TMZ, Portra 800, is the extra stop of the
Summilux worth the weight and added cost?

I love the results with my 50 and 90 Summicron's and am trying to
decide which 35mm to round out my bag.