Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2005/02/21
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Ted, You just saved me a sizeable chunk of change. You confirmed what I found in my limited experience with a 135mm on an M body. I bought a 135mm Hektor as an experiment I shot a test roll. It was adequate. I probably used it twice more in two years. The third time took it off the shelf, I found that its aperature leaves had become all confused and bound up, giving it a max aperature of f/8. The only positive aspect to my Hektor test was that I parted it out on that auction site and kept my net loss to about $50. It's amazing what people will pay for a 39mm Leitz UV filter and a silver lens cap, not to mention a lens that clearly advertised as non-functional. Thanks, Chris Lawson ------------------------------------------------ Ted, The Taunting Didactic replied: Howdy Chris, Seems you're first. ;-) > Ted, here's my question. If you have or use an M-series 135mm lens, which > one is it? Why that particular lens? Does it hold up well when thumping > dullards who get in your way? <<< I had a 135mm M lens for one assignment back in the '70's because I required to be as quiet as possible and yet have some reach, so it was the 135 Elmarit-m 2.8. Hated the lens everytime I had it in hand and to my eye! Simply because 135 is too long for the M body and viewfinder viewing. And that's whatever model Leica make new or old. As soon as the shoot was over in a month I sold it at a loss just to get rid of it. The longest M lens I use is a 90 Summicron f 2.0, a razor blade sharp negative cutter. However, I rarely use it unless I absolutely have to. I prefer anything longer than 50mm to be on an R body of some kind. If for some reason I required a 135 for the M today I'd look for a used same old 135 Elmarit-m 2.8. Why? Because it's faster than the new Apo-telyt M f 3.4 and my first choice for any lens is fast first. Regardless of any other number or technical factors. And yes the 135 Elmarit-m 2.8. is solidly made and a good thumping lens if necessary. ;-) Although I'd not recommend lens thumping. ;-) I hope this answer works for you, regards, ted<<