Leica 50mm red scale LTM f3.5 vs M f 2.8

[A miller]

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Assuming both of these collapsible elmar lenses are in excellent optical condition, can those with experience please share some differences between these for use on an M3 and possibly an M9? Other than the obvious full stop, any differences in terms of build quality, size, weight and rendering? I'm looking for a super compact vintage lens to use on those sunny days for fun. The needs for an SM to M adapter doesn't affect decision that much, but it is certainly a consideration in favor of the 2.8. But I'm stretcher are any others that I amnot aware of. Thanks in advance. Adam

Edited March 22, 2013 by A miller

[UliWer]

The first version of the 5cm Elmar with bayonet mount had f/3.5. The optics were identical to the classical "red scale" Elmar but it had a "proper" f-stop-ring, so you weren't forced to use your fingernails. Filter mount was E 39, so of course it was bigger than the original screw-mount version of the Elmar.

 

It looks exactly the same as the first f2.8/5cm Elmar. This later one was a concession to the public demand during the 50s, when standard lenses had to have f2.8 as maximum opening. Though with this "improvement" of half a stop the lens became worse: contrast and resolution are considerably weaker than for the f/3.5-version until you stop it down to f/5.6. Nonetheless the f/2.8-version was built until the late sixties while the f/3.5-version was soon discontinued. Therefore the first bayonet-version with f3.5 is much rarer - which does not have an influence on the prices on the second hand market - still today poeople prefer f/2.8 - even if they get less for it.

 

My advice would always be to look for a bayonet Elmar with f/3.5 - if you don't want to spend some more for the late f2.8-Elmar-M which is in a completey different class as far as contrast and resolution are concerned - though it is less well built than the earlier M-mount-versions. Of course the classical version of an Elmar in screw-mount is always good to have, if one likes to use "old glass". Though the f-stop lever in front of the lens and the filter-mount with A36 covering the f-stop lever is no optimal solution - to say the least.

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[A miller]

Thanks very much., this is very helpful for me. I agree on the preference for an M mount, but the opportunity I have a super lean glass is only with the LTM screw mount. I won't use it that often, just for fun. So I don't think the ergonomics will be too much of an issue for me. But such is life with the trade offs.... Thanks again! Adam

[earleygallery]

I have a Red Scale LTM and a screw mount version 2.8. The 3.5 is better but I'd say they even up from f4. I wouldnt agree that it's a considerable difference but it is noticeable.

 

The Red Scale lens was a reasonable improvement over the earlier lens and was factory coated. Earlier versions are still very very good (as long as in good condition optically of course).

 

I would advise you to buy either the LTM RS or the M mount 3.5 (optically the same as mentioned above).

[A miller]

Thanks,James. Exactly what I need, clear advice!

[bideford]

I have a 1950 screw mount Elmar 50mm 3.5 (coated) with clean optics - an excellent lens I picked up for less than £100. It has a bent front ring (must have taken a clout at some stage) but this has had no detrimental effect on the lens.

 

There is something quite nice about using such an old lens on my M8.2!

 

Changing the aperture is not difficult - I convert most images to B&W so no need for a UV-IR filter.

 

I have posted some examples previously on the old glass thread.

 

James

[A miller]

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Thanks again to all who posted. I ultimately purchased a 50mm screw mount red scale f3.5 that has clean glass. I picked up an Leica LTM to M adapter so that I can use it on my M3 and M9. Haven't tried it on my M3 yet, but here are some example pics from my M9.

 

Here's on of my lovely and patient daughter while during a visit we made to our tailor...

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This is a Church on our way to the playground. Hard to believe this is NYC; just as well could be Mexico City

 

My favorite thing about this lens is the panning abilities. Here's my daughter on her scooter at the playground...

 

Thanks again for all the advice.....