Voigtlander Nokton Classic F1.4 SC Version 1 with M-P Type 240

[ShafQ-P]

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Hi All

I have recently upgraded or maybe sideward moved from a Leica Q-P to a Leica M-P (type 240).

I’m currently looking for a small do it all reasonably priced lens.

I have the following two available to me at a reasonable/low price:

Voigtlander 35mm Color Skoper F2.5 (£289)or Voigtlander 35mm F1.4 Nokton Classic SC Version 1 (£250).

I would really appreciate any feed back you might have on either or both lenses.  I’m leaning towards the Nokton, as it is always nice to have the option of having more light available.  I understand these may not be the most sharpest or technically proficient lenses but that really is not my biggest concern.  I rather something with a bit more character, much like some of the images I used to get from my old Leica M8.2 and my vintage Summicron. Also size is a factor as I like to travel light. 

I do intend to add a 50mm at some point also. As that is really my preferred focal length. But both will be part of my kit as I feel a 35mm and 50mm covers all my needs.

I’m off to Italy in a week and therefore really need to pick one, otherwise all I’ll have with me is my IPhone 😂. As always your feedback is sincerely appreciated. 

 

 

 

 

Edited September 15, 2023 by ShafQ-P

[dpitt]

If 50mm is your preferred focal length and your budget is limited this sounds like a good plan.

The best bargains in Leica M lenses can be found in 50mm compared to wider options. Lots of choices around and they can be had at about half the price of their 35mm counterparts, if they even exists. So buying cheaper alternatives in 35mm is in general a good idea because the cheapest Leica 35 mm, the Summaron is quickly going towards the €1000 mark. I think mostly because of supply and demand reasons.

Both Voigtlanders are small enough. I have bought the Color Skopar 35mm F2.5 only recently and have no experience with the Nokton. The Color Skopar is even smaller than my Summicron 35 v3. First impressions are good but not overwhelmed. My intended use was on the TL2 as a very compact 50mm eq. lens that is not very expensive as the Summicron 35 v3 and not as monstrous as the Summilux 35 TL that I got with my SL.

I also have a TTArtisan 35 F1.4 (APS-C) that came with the TL2. At first glance it produces good results, but they somehow look boring and unappealing, very flat... I shot maybe 5 images before I put it in the closet, probably for ever. I bought the Color Skopar to replace it. Compared to the TTArtisan, the Voigtlander Color Skopar is on a different level. It really is worth my time and effort to carry the TL2 with me and take a shot that is more than a snapshot.

My situation is very different from yours in the sense that I have access to lots of vintage M and R lens alternatives, and even an excellent TL one in 35mm. I keep grabbing either the Summilux TL (for short walks) or the Summicron 35 for the compact option when traveling. If you are going to compare with the vintage Summicron that you used with the M8, I am afraid you are spoiled by the old Summicron in terms of smooth rendering and 3D pop, but in the price range the Voigtlander there is pobably no alternative that comes close. The TTartisan M version is close in price and I think I would really prefer the Voigtlander.

Edited September 16, 2023 by dpitt

[ShafQ-P]

Thank you for your advice.

 

[Bernard M]

I have a M-P 240, a Color Skopar 35 2,5 (and a Summicron 2/50). Very happy with the small size of the Voigtlander, which was the main reason to buy it. 

[ShafQ-P]

So I just managed to pick up a Voigtlander 50mm F1.5 Nokton Chrome Brass original version for £350ish.  Which I think is a great deal.  I’ve never used the lens but had alway wanted one, due to the images I’ve seen taken with it and also the chrome brass finish which looks amazing.  Still have to test it as there seem to be some light marks on the front element, but I’ve been assured they do not affect the images.  Also I’ve read that the focusing wheel might be a love it or hate it kind of deal, time will tell I guess.
 

Still will pick up a 35mm at some point but for now this will do, at least until I can get more funds together. 

Really looking to receiving my M-P 240 now. 
 

Thanks for all your help and advice.