Summicron 35 ASPH v1 or v2 @ same price?

[pjean]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Hello. 
 

I have the opportunity to buy either a used Summicron 35 ASPH v1 or v2 at the exact same price. Which one would you pick?

For context, I just upgraded from a black M10 to a silver M11. The reason why I mention the color is because I could get the v1 in silver which would mean it is made from brass. While the v2 would be black. 
 

Not that the color itself is much of a consideration, but which would be the better lens in terms of image quality with the M11 and potential to retain value over time? I also have an older pre Summilux but find it a tad too soft wide open for my taste. 
 

Would greatly appreciate any point of view. Thanks. 

[jaapv]

The V2 was maybe a bit better than the V1 when introduced but looking through the perspective of time it is much of a muchness on a modern sensor. Go by condition and price. 

[Jeff S]

1 hour ago, jaapv said:

 Go by condition and price. 

And ergonomics/handling.  Different hood design as well as sample variation regarding aperture ring looseness, focus action and potentially mild focus shift.

Jeff

[Casey Jefferson]

https://www.streetsilhouettes.com/home/2016/7/9/leica-35mm-summicron-asph-i-vs-ii-24mp-vs-42mp-resolution-test

If the V2 is typical like the one above, I would put my money on V1. Sharpness is one thing but the contrast seems lower on the V2, and some backlight spill too.

 

https://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/leica_m10_r_review#sample_images

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

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

But here on higher megapixel M camera the V1 shown noticeable performance degradation away from the center. Judging from the exposure it's probably around f4 or f5.6, exhibiting the typical smearing adapted on mirrorless body. Not sure if V2 performed better, if yes it'll be a better choice for M11 to utilize the resolutions.

[Dennis]

My most used lens is the 35 Summicron Asph v1. Super smooth and fast to focus, one of the best quintessence M-lens. Optically, both versions suppose to be the same. I don't appreciate the lens hood of the current v2; it is way bigger than the v1. And take longer to unscrew.
If you are considering the silver v1, be aware of the different weigh: approx. 255 g /9 oz alloy - 340 g /12 oz chrome plated - 225 g /7.9 oz black chrome

Anyway, you can't go wrong with both. If the weight and lens hood are not affecting your decision, get the one in better condition and a full box.

 

 

 

 

 

[jakontil]

I love the heft of the brass on v1, so i’d pick that silver v1 

otherwise just go with the v2, it is new for a reason

[junix]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

On 10/13/2022 at 4:52 PM, jakontil said:

I love the heft of the brass on v1, so i’d pick that silver v1 

otherwise just go with the v2, it is new for a reason

+1

Love the silver v1 in brass.

Edited October 14, 2022 by junix
Misspelled