Opinions/Experience With Voigtlander 40mm f1.2 Nokton Aspherical?

[Keith (M)]

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Quite a few threads here about 21, 35, 40 & 50mm VM lenses, but a search did not reveal anything about the 40mm f1.2.  Curiosity on my part - I have no desire to lug about anything heavier than my 50mm Summiliux-M ASPH, so such things as the Noctilux and similar are ruled out but I wonder if the f1.2 40mm VM has similar characteristics that may well suit my M10M?  (In terms of standard focal length currently used with the Summilux, a ZM 50mm C-Sonnar & 5cm Summicron Collapsible LTM). 

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[FrozenInTime]

I've been very happy with the lens wide open and stopped down on M10 and M10M. Even went as far as selling my 50 Summilux and 50 C-Sonnar and buying a second 40/1.2.

I will try to collate a few photos in this thread from the ones that are scattered in other threads.

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[FrozenInTime]

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Edited November 8, 2020 by FrozenInTime

[FrozenInTime]

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[Keith (M)]

11 hours ago, FrozenInTime said:

I've been very happy with the lens wide open and stopped down on M10 and M10M. Even went as far as selling my 50 Summilux and 50 C-Sonnar and buying a second 40/1.2.

I will try to collate a few photos in this thread from the ones that are scattered in other threads.

 

Thanks for the comment and the numerous example impressive photos.  I've read Sean Reid's review and he rates it quite highly.  Do you tend to use the normal VF & guesstimate or LV/EVF?

[FrozenInTime]

1 hour ago, Keith (M) said:

Thanks for the comment and the numerous example impressive photos.  I've read Sean Reid's review and he rates it quite highly.  Do you tend to use the normal VF & guesstimate or LV/EVF?

To date I don't think I've used the EVF in combination with the 40mm lens; mostly just fully filling to overlap the 50mm frame lines, with very occasional post exposure check on the LCD for tight perspectives like this.

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[FrozenInTime]

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Here's one that shows the wide open field ; the extra width does provide a look different from the Noctilux.

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[jaeger]

On 11/8/2020 at 2:37 PM, Keith (M) said:

Quite a few threads here about 21, 35, 40 & 50mm VM lenses, but a search did not reveal anything about the 40mm f1.2.  Curiosity on my part - I have no desire to lug about anything heavier than my 50mm Summiliux-M ASPH, so such things as the Noctilux and similar are ruled out but I wonder if the f1.2 40mm VM has similar characteristics that may well suit my M10M?  (In terms of standard focal length currently used with the Summilux, a ZM 50mm C-Sonnar & 5cm Summicron Collapsible LTM). 

I have 50 lux ASPH and I used to have 40mm f1.2 but I sold it after few months of ownership.   The 40mm Nokton is better then the 35mm Nokton II but it's still very pale to my taste... like anemia if shooting wide open.  Shooting at f/2 and step down is good, low lights are great. 

[Keith (M)]

Thanks all for the comments and copious examples. After pondering long and hard about my lens usage I have decided not to pursue the 40mm but instead have ordered the CV 35mm f1.2  VM Nokton III (the new version, which weighs in at a relatively lightweight 332gm).  Arrives tomorrow.

[surfmanjoe]

It is a great comment on the lens,  FrozenInTime, thanks.

Actually I am interested in learning how this lens compares to nokton 50mm f1.5, I and II. just found it's hard to find side by side review on the internet. 

I would like to buy one of them to expand my low light gear. if anyone knows, it is grateful to have your opinion. Thx.

[FrozenInTime]

1 hour ago, surfmanjoe said:

It is a great comment on the lens,  FrozenInTime, thanks.

Actually I am interested in learning how this lens compares to nokton 50mm f1.5, I and II. just found it's hard to find side by side review on the internet. 

I would like to buy one of them to expand my low light gear. if anyone knows, it is grateful to have your opinion. Thx.

Thanks, have a look over here https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/board/55 within the long threads there are comparisons with most the latest Voigtlander lenses.( beware while a good number of samples are on Leica cameras, many are on Sony bodies )

The short answer, I believe , is the 40/1.2 and 50/1.2 are more corrected  modern rendering lenses with smooth bokeh. The new 50/1.5-II is certainly smaller but not as fully corrected optics, giving it a more classic look and a touch of swirl to the bokeh.

[surfmanjoe]

Thank you, FrozenInTime, for the useful info. I will spend some time to study. 

I currently have zm 50mm planar, that is quite modern design with bright color rendition,  a bit high contrast, I have no complaint about it. the only thing is I know people intrigued by Leica, sooner or later will buy a lux. But to me, Lux is waaaay out of my budget, even a used one. I heard Voigtlander somehow can present sort of classic or traditional feel. that's what I am looking for. 

Hence, end up with 40/1.2, 50/1.5 I and II. yeah, I know 40/1.2 is more on modern side. this is where I fight myself. 😃 I really like the appearance of 50/1.5 II, but as it is new, not many reference can be found. 50/1.2 is bigger than my expectation, plus it is more like of modern rendering, I would have it passed. 

Anyway, thank you for sharing those beautiful shots. Enjoy what you have!

[FrozenInTime]

5 hours ago, surfmanjoe said:

I know people intrigued by Leica, sooner or later will buy a lux. But to me, Lux is waaaay out of my budget, even a used one. I

I sold my 50 Summilux ASPH after using the 40/1.2 for a year;

The Summilux results were fine, but I was never happy with the lens focus smoothness., which had uneven resistance due to the FLE mechanism . I consider it's mechanical design flawed .

[Cobram]

Thank you all for Nokton 40 examples. Used to own Nokton 50 1.2 but rendering was inferior to Lux 50 ASPH. 

I agree with FrozenInTime regarding Lux focus smoothness (actually lack of it). This phenomena caused me many miss focused photos. 

Now I use Summilux 50 on Leica SL exclusively. Best combination ever. Very very happy with results regarding sharpness, rendering and focus magnification/peaking options. Match made in heaven :-)