Exchange Summicron R 50mm VI for VII?

[bull40]

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Hello old friends,

I've been away from the world of Leica for a few years, now. Although I was a dedicated R user since 1985, since the announcement of the demise of the R10 and R system in general, I've floated around various systems including film and digital Nikons, and for the last two years, the Fuji X-Pro1 system. While I'd been happiest with the Fuji kit, I've been feeling the call of Mother Leica calling me back home to my first love, film and the R series.

I just received today my first shipment, including an R4s MOD.P, 3 cam (pre-APO) Extender 2x (it was too much of a bargain not to pick up to play with,) and an R VI 50 'cron (Wetzlar 3 cam.) Everything has arrived safely and in quite excellent condition, even with new foam seals on the body.

Here's the issue that I'd like your advice on. I actually ordered the Canadian 50 'cron VII with 3 cams and E55 filter thread, as that has always been my go-to favorite lens. I was "accidentally" shipped the earlier version, complete with hood and caps. I have the option of returning and exchanging the VI for the VII, same price, same condition. I am rather drawn to this older version, and although I've never found any quality differences between my previous Canadian or German lenses, I rather like the thought of the Wetzlar manufacture. So, here's the next issue: the lens I received is very clean, and passed the "flashlight test" to my satisfaction. However, the focus ring is a little tight overall, and I can clearly feel some variation in loose/tight throughout the focus range. Also, and this is probably the big factor, several of the aperture blades look as though they either have some small, odd shaped fungus marks. I'm thinking it's probably been cleaned off previously, and it is just residual stains or marks. Or, will this likely grow and spread to optics? I live in a fairly warm and humid subtropical environment, which could certainly encourage further growth. I'm thinking it is probably safest to exchange the lens, and reduce the risk of future problems (and save myself the trouble of sourcing Series VI filters, also.)

Your thoughts and opinions are greatly appreciated.

 

 

Cheers! Buzz

[gbealnz]

The chance to have both, at least for a while at all Buzz?

I have the first version, and it is on an old Leicaflex SL, nice pairing.

 

On a whim the other night I fitted it to the front of my X-Pro 1, and shot a few astro scenes with it, my goodness, for a lens as old as me, it really is great. Sharp, and contrasty.

 

OK, not a scientific answer, but I can appreciate the way you feel about the V1, it is a nice lens. Having both to compare would be great.

Gary

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[bull40]

Thanks for the response and thoughts, Gary. I've decided to trade it out for the later version. I'm sure a good technician could fix the focus damping unevenness (Leica US did a great job on a 28 Elmarit R with a similar problem for me a few years ago.) Does Leica still service the R lenses and bodies? I just can't see taking the risk of dealing with a growing fungus problem down the road when it can be solved now. From what I've read, the performance of both is remarkably similar, with just a few minor differences.

I think maybe I'll shoot a roll or two with it before I send it off... ;-)

Edited May 30, 2014 by bull40

[gbealnz]

Buzz,

LOL, good plan to be honest.

Shoot a few rolls with it, and send it back.

In the interim, try the V2 and see what the gut says. If it says you've made the wrong decision, then likely you can get it back either in the same less than pristine condition, or repaired.

I agree, both are nice. E55 filters are easier to find though.

Gary

[bull40]

I'm very familiar with the V2. This will be my fourth. I've shot probably 75% of my favorite work with it since I acquired my first in 1985. Perhaps later on I'll add an SL2 and a V1.

[SteveYork]

I have all the 50mm Summicrons. The first optical formula has better bokeh, but the second is sharper wide open. Can't go wrong with either. Neither are a slouch in sharpness or bokeh.

[bull40]

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Steve, I agree with your summation. I rather like "funky" bokeh, and spend a lot of time shooting in low light at f2. The V1 is already on its way back to the shop for exchange. Thanks.

[jip]

I am too late to comment on the lenses, but for what it's worth I think exchanging it for the newer lens was a nice choice. Also welcome back to the Leica world!

 

I recently started shooting with the 'R line' and enjoy it allot. (I'm a M shooter normally)

 

Be sure to show us some results from your leica!!

[bull40]

For those who are following this, here's an update. I received the replacement V2 very quickly, this past Friday. It arrived in exceptionally nice condition, glass is spotless, no signs of fungus past or present. Focus ring is silky smooth as it should be, so I'm a happy guy for the time being. Now to start plotting out the rest of the kit and start shopping again, after I spend some good shooting time getting reacquainted with "mein schmerz."