Question about 35mm Lux ASPH (FLE)

[pig882009]

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My 35mm lux ASPH (FLE) is finally arrived. It works perfectly while I took it for trial shoot today.

 

However, I realised two strange issues with this lens.

 

First the focus ring is feeling "stiff" and "tight when comparing to my 35 Summicron.

 

Second, when I shock the lens gently, you can hear a very small noice. It sounds like the "mechanics" inside the lens is moving.

 

Are these normal for 35 lux ASPH?

 

I remember reading responses for my my question in this forum few months ago. But I could not find it now.

 

So your answers would be appreciated.

[adan]

Both those symptoms can occur with any Leica M lens, not that they are necessarily common or to be expected. Sometimes there is a little play in the aperture mechanism (the noise, perhaps) and various lenses are variably stiff - the totally non-ASPH, non-FLE 75 Summilux, for example - and sometimes more so fresh from the factory, which then often goes away with use.

 

However -

 

The 35 FLE does have an additional focusing helix inside, to move two sets of glass independently (the "floating" element(s) vs. the rest). So it wouldn't surprise me if rubbing four sets of threads together instead of just two makes for a stiffer feel. I've only had one in my hands for 30 seconds or so, so I don't know if that actually happens.

[matlep]

 

I remember reading responses for my my question in this forum few months ago. But I could not find it now.

 

 

Rattling noise - normal or not - it depends who you ask

 

Please read this thread: http://www.l-camera-forum.com/leica-forum/customer-forum/150752-my-new-35mm-summilux-rattling.html

 

The consensus seems to be that 1: it is normal 2: not every lens has it 3: it has absolutely no effect on image quality or resale value 4. it does not affect you ability to be candid in the streets

 

No worries! By the way, the lens will loosen up after some use.

[tom0511]

I had one 35 FLE which had no rattle at all (but it had a problem with the chrome) and therefore I got a replacement lens.

This sample now has a clear "rattle". I was concerned in the beginning but I dont care anymore. Optical they both have been great.

I did not find them "stiff" to focus", eventhough maybe a little "stiffer" than my 35 Summarit.

[StephenPatterson]

I'm not sure about Tom's comment above that he had a problem with the chrome on his 35 Summilux FLE, as the lens was never made in chrome. He's probably referring to the previous version.

 

I got my new 35 Summilux FLE last week, and compared to my 35 Summicron ASPH the focus is a stiffer, tighter feel. This entirely normal because of the extra mechanics to independently focus the floating element group. The lens will also make a very slight rattle sound when shaken (not stirred). As many others have reported this is normal.

[tom0511]

I'm not sure about Tom's comment above that he had a problem with the chrome on his 35 Summilux FLE, as the lens was never made in chrome. He's probably referring to the previous version.

 

I got my new 35 Summilux FLE last week, and compared to my 35 Summicron ASPH the focus is a stiffer, tighter feel. This entirely normal because of the extra mechanics to independently focus the floating element group. The lens will also make a very slight rattle sound when shaken (not stirred). As many others have reported this is normal.

 

Stephen, I was meaning the FLE-lens and the black "chrome" - I am not sure if this is the right word for the surface coating used for black Leica lenses though.

Fact was I had 2 samples of the FLE, one didnt rattle, the other "rattles" and I dont see a problem as long Leica says its not a problem.

[StephenPatterson]

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Stephen, I was meaning the FLE-lens and the black "chrome" - I am not sure if this is the right word for the surface coating used for black Leica lenses though.

Fact was I had 2 samples of the FLE, one didnt rattle, the other "rattles" and I dont see a problem as long Leica says its not a problem.

 

Thanks Tom, the black Leica lenses are anodized aluminum. Black chrome is something completely different.

 

I know that people have complained about the FLE lens rattle, and the example I have hardly makes any sound, but it is there. Absolutely not a problem.

[Double Negative]

Thanks Tom, the black Leica lenses are anodized aluminum. Black chrome is something completely different...

 

Exactly. The black lenses utilize black anodized aluminum (not paint or black chrome, that's different) for the lens barrels whereas the silver chrome lenses utilize chrome plated brass barrels. Thus the weight difference. The interior bits (e.g. helicoid) are brass regardless.

[algrove]

I'm not sure about Tom's comment above that he had a problem with the chrome on his 35 Summilux FLE, as the lens was never made in chrome. He's probably referring to the previous version.

 

I got my new 35 Summilux FLE last week, and compared to my 35 Summicron ASPH the focus is a stiffer, tighter feel. This entirely normal because of the extra mechanics to independently focus the floating element group. The lens will also make a very slight rattle sound when shaken (not stirred). As many others have reported this is normal.

 

Hey, glad you finally got it. Congrats. It's a beauty, no?

[bpalme]

My Noctilux was so stiff at first I thought something was wrong with it.. but it has loosened up quite a bit.

[pig882009]

thanks for all your reply.

 

Now I know the "stiffness" issue is normal. When you comparing Summilux to a Summicron.

 

In regards to the rattling issue, I have sopken to the dealer. He is communicating with the Leica authority in Australia to clarify this rattling issue.

 

I will post Leica's response after i hear from my dealer.

 

Thanks again for all your input

[StephenPatterson]

Have a look at this thread from last summer. Also as you scroll through the thread you will find links to even older threads on the same subject.

 

Or if you like I can save you the drama of reading hundreds of posts and just cut to the chase...it's normal.

 

http://www.l-camera-forum.com/leica-forum/customer-forum/195395-advice-needed-new-35mm-summilux.html

[matlep]

I can't figure out why users are starting threads and not bothering reading the replies. It seems to be happening a lot lately... What a waste of time:cool: