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50mm Summicron To Avoid ??


rknewcomb

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Hi,

I wanted to ask you folks with more knowledge then I have, is their one of the 50mm Summicrons that I should avoid? I can't afford the newest model and don't mind vintage glass, but wondered if their is one of the models that is known to not be so good. I have read that the earliest version tends to get haze or fog etc.

thank you.

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the condition is the main deal with any older summicron, for optically the various versions have certain characteristics that can be highly desirable. for ex., the dr summicron with goggles is a smashing performer when found in good condition; it is lame when found hazy.

 

here is some detailed info.

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Hi,

I wanted to ask you folks with more knowledge then I have, is their one of the 50mm Summicrons that I should avoid? I can't afford the newest model and don't mind vintage glass, but wondered if their is one of the models that is known to not be so good. I have read that the earliest version tends to get haze or fog etc.

thank you.

I have a pre 6 bit Summicron which is absolutely wonderful and 6 bit compatibility is only necessary if you want it to talk to an M8 or M9. They are readily available second hand and even mint condition versions like the chrome one I have wont exactly break the bank. Old glass Summicrons are worth considering as additional 50 mm lenses but I would suggest a modern Summicron should be acquired first as an every day lens
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Always assuming a lens in good condition, the collapsable summicron is not quite up to the later versions, although still very good. The various later versions are all wonderful. They seem to have slightly different characters, but all will make technically wonderful pictures. If you buy used, consider top condition first, version second.

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Hi,

I wanted to ask you folks with more knowledge then I have, is their one of the 50mm Summicrons that I should avoid? I can't afford the newest model and don't mind vintage glass, but wondered if their is one of the models that is known to not be so good. I have read that the earliest version tends to get haze or fog etc.

thank you.

 

In case you didn't already know:

the summicron optical formula has been the same since the 70ties (i think late seventies).

So the last 3 versions (including the newest) are identical in optical performance.

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Probably not adding anything you don't know, but in case that's not the case- the 50 "rigid" cron is a wonderful lens, and the best bang for the buck of any leica lens I have. I got a excellent+ condition sample for something like $400 and it has performed extremely well on my M7, (and M8). Very sharp wide open, pleasing contrast (just right), extremely smooth focus ring, light....a winner. best....Peter

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