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The next Leica product release will be a small red leica logo with no camera body or lens at all.  This minimal design approach forces the photographer to forget about mechanical devices and use his or her eye and mind to memorize visual images and save them in the cerebral cortex thus affording the user  a more pure visual experience.

 

This might be the first Leica, Ansel Adams would have approved.
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Re use in outer space: does the replacement of the air in the lens by a vacuum alter the character of the images? (Serious question)

Serious reply [OT in this thread ;)]: The wavelength of light in vacuum is slightly longer than in air. Thus the difference between refractive indices on air/glass boundaries within a lens will be slightly different, potentially affecting aberration correction (although most propably only measurably, not visibly).

 

On a different note: Didn‘t you ever note the horrible lateral chromatic aberration in Apollo‘s Hasselblad shots of the earthrise? :)

Edited by schattenundlicht
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I made some of these for Zone 6 4x5.    Drawing some lines in the air,  I was able to rise /fall,  shift l/r.  Great fun.

 Not sharp enough for 35 mm.   You need to make a burr free hole and it is very difficult.   Put it in your enlarger and see the edges.

 Sites sell pro made holes.

Following Leica’s lead, Nikon will release an elaborate f/286 PC-E T/S pinhole at Photokina!

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There is also a rumour that Leica are working on an even more interesting version - the Tri-Refractomar-M which is based on the rotating Waterhouse Stop principle. This will be a first for a digital rangefinder if it proves practical to build this triple air lens to Leica's required tolerances. It will also feature an 'expanding hood' based on the concept used for the FIKUS. Overcoming the technical problems will be a challenge and the cost will be high but the price of progress is never cheap.

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It's already shipping!
 
I heard about this lens a while ago and my dealer agreed to take a deposit, so I just got one of the very early production units.
 
Below a couple of test shots with the MM. f/110 is a bit slow, but there's little distortion and micro-contrast is to die for. Not sure I like the 24mm focal length, though. I need to spend more time with the lens to better understand it - very exciting.
 
Also, while it makes the camera pocketable, it has created an empty space in my custom-made ostrich bag, so now I need another lens to fill the empty space and keep the leather from creasing on my next trip to the Emirates.
What would others recommend?
 

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It's already shipping!

 

I heard about this lens a while ago and my dealer agreed to take a deposit, so I just got one of the very early production units.

 

Below a couple of test shots with the MM. f/110 is a bit slow, but there's little distortion and micro-contrast is to die for. Not sure I like the 24mm focal length, though. I need to spend more time with the lens to better understand it - very exciting.

 

Also, while it makes the camera pocketable, it has created an empty space in my custom-made ostrich bag, so now I need another lens to fill the empty space and keep the leather from creasing on my next trip to the Emirates.

What would others recommend?

Exhilarating to see that your production copy of the Refractomar-M works even better than the prototype I had for review. This will become a lens of fame & legend! Edited by schattenundlicht
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Exhilarating to see that your production copy of the Refractomar-M works even better than the prototype I had for review. This will become a lens of fame & legend!

 

Yes - I believe they managed to tame the highlights a bit, while retaining the classic Leica glow. Rumors say they had a special nano coating developed for this lens, which explains the hefty price tag.

However, I believe our grand-grand children will thank us, as I can easily see its value go up.

 

P.S.: if this thread keeps going, I wonder how many inquiries regarding the Refractomar-M the dealers will get in the next few days  ;)

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And another one from me - seems like I have some time on my hands today...

MM again, no post-processing.

Certainly a steep learning curve ahead, but the more I use this lens, the more I appreciate its gentle transition from OOF to OOF.

If only they could make a 28mm version...

 

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Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!

 

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Wow this is amazing and being a Leica fan I would pay exorbitant sums to try this revolutionary lens. Would you like to trade your copy of this lens for my 75 noct? If that is not enticing enough, I am happy to sweeten the deal. The bokeh is truly among the best I have ever seen— even better than the noctiluxes wide open. It’s almost as though the entire image, corner to corner, is one huge bokeh ball.

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...

Will Leica make a platinum version limited edition as well?

Albert  :D  :D  :D

 

No platinum edition, but there are already rumours that due to the overwhelming reception of this new lens Leica is contemplating a titanium ultra-limited edition for the Leica aficionados. Despite being made of metal, it will match the 'regular' version's low weight, but will offer even more precision and longevity, due to significantly reduced abrasion by in and out flowing air. Price is estimated to be 24,999.- € incl. VAT, and will include a hand sewn leather carrying case which may be fitted to the camera strap to ensure perfect protection of this lens when lesser lenses are used.

 

Andy

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