Cost of 35 Summicron IV

[carstenw]

I am considering getting a 4th generation Summicron 35mm for my M6, which would still be a useful lens on the M8, even if I likely won't use it much there. Does anyone know what such a lens is worth at the moment, in Germany/Britain/Europe?

Is there a huge difference in the quality of the II, III, and IV versions? From the Leica Pocket Guide they sound similar, with the IV version being slightly sharper, and perhaps more flare-resistant.

[sdai]

I'm not sure about the going price outside North America, Carsten ... but it can be anywhere between 800 US and 1100 US dollars depending on its condition. I've gone through four of them and keep three at the moment ... two Wetzlars and one Midland. One of the two must haves IMO ... .

[ho_co]

Carsten--
Each iteration of the 35/2 was noticeably improved over its predecessor.

The IV is definitely the best of the pre-aspheric ones.

I'm with Simon on the price. I sold mine to a dealer about two years ago for $880, and he sold it to a consumer for $1100. I can't speak to the price outside the US.

--HC

[marknorton]

I like it because it is the most compact of the M lenses I own, though the 28mm f2.8 has it beat in that department. No idea on price, I bought mine back in 1992, but ebay will give you a guide. I had mine CLA'd in Solms when I had it coded, cost about $240.

On a practical note, it's worth getting the 12526 hood because it comes with a lens hood cap so you can leave the hood on all the time. The original 12524 did not so you needed to take the hood off to use the lens cap.

[lct]

Originally Posted by marknorton

...it's worth getting the 12526 hood because it comes with a lens hood cap so you can leave the hood on all the time. The original 12524 did not so you needed to take the hood off to use the lens cap.

Yes and those who own the 28/2.8 asph may use it's hood cap on the 35/2 IV hood as well.