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I have and have had quite a few Leica lenses, but if I had to pick a single favorite (specifically for b/w film), it is the 35/2.8 Summaron. I've had two copies now - the first was ok, maybe a little hazy, but still took great photos. The second is very clean and clear, yet has a nice glowy air to it while still having a distinct "pop" of definition and contrast. It's like every image has two layers. 

I also love the 50s I have so far, in particular the v2 Summilux (e43) and my DR Summicron. But if I am being honest, neither of them has the "wow" factor I get from my Summaron (the Summilux is very clean and sober, but still lyrical. The DR is very sharp and informative, if that makes any sense. Less poetic than the others, but still really amazing objective quality). They have their own distinct characters that stand on their own, but I am searching for something that resembles the Summaron, if that is even possible. I am thinking the v3 cron might give that extra contrast that the DR lacks. I have never used the v4/5, though. How are those relative to the Summaron? I would imagine they may be too clean and modern. I have also read that the old Summitar has its adherents, being centrally quite sharp with decent contrast, but I also have never used this one.

Any ideas? I know I am gushing about magic fairy dust here, but the Summaron really does have that extra something for me.

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The v3 Summicron does enhance contrast compared to the earlier models. I used one as my main lens for over 40 years, and I also preferred the 2.8 Summaron over the 8-element Summicron 35 for the Summaron contrast. So you might try a clean v3 Summicron. 

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31 minutes ago, TomB_tx said:

The v3 Summicron does enhance contrast compared to the earlier models. I used one as my main lens for over 40 years, and I also preferred the 2.8 Summaron over the 8-element Summicron 35 for the Summaron contrast. So you might try a clean v3 Summicron. 

You are probably right. I actually had a v3 cron for a long time, and stupidly sold it when I got the Summilux (money reasons). I remember liking it a lot, but I cannot figure out which pictures I shot with it.

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