Exploring the Legacy of Leica’s 35mm Lenses
Welcome back to another deep dive into Leica’s world of legendary lenses! In today’s post, we explore the Leica 35mm lineup, covering some of the most iconic Summicron and Summilux lenses. From vintage classics to modern marvels, this guide will take you through the evolution of these highly sought-after optics.
Summicron Lineup – The Legendary F/2 Standard
Summicron Version 1 (8-Elements)
Summicron Version 1 @ F2
The Summicron 35mm Version 1, known as the 8-Elements, is one of the most revered vintage Leica lenses. Produced between the 1950s and 1960s, it features a distinctive rendering with low contrast and rich tonal gradations, making it an excellent choice for black and white photography. The M3 version of this lens was specifically designed for the Leica M3, offering a unique shooting experience.
Summicron Version 2 & 3 (6-Elements)
Summicron Version 2 & 3 @F2
Transitioning into the Version 2 & Version 3, Leica reduced the element count, refining contrast and optical performance. The Version 3 introduced a screw-on filter thread, improving usability while retaining the rich character of its predecessor.
Summicron Version 4 (King of Bokeh)
Summicron Version 4 @F2
Widely regarded as one of the best everyday vintage lenses, the Summicron Version 4 earned the title King of Bokeh, a term coined by magazine reviewer Mike Johnston. With its well-balanced contrast and smooth rendering, this lens has become a staple in film photography circles.
Summicron ASPH & APO – Modern Precision
Leica continued refining the Summicron lineup with the ASPH and APO Summicron 35mm lenses. These optics provide sharp, clinical rendering, boasting high contrast and excellent color reproduction. The APO Summicron, in particular, features floating elements, ensuring superior clarity across different focal planes.
Summilux Lineup – The Power of F/1.4
Summilux Version 1 (Steel Rim)
The steel rim Summilux 35mm is a true collector’s item, offering classic Leica glow and unique character in portraits. With soft rendering at f/1.4 but exceptional sharpness when stopped down, it embodies the best of vintage optical design.
Summilux Version 2 (Pre-ASPH)
Known for its dreamy glow, the Summilux 35mm Version 2 Pre-ASPH delivers a distinct softness, making it an excellent choice for portraits and film photography. This lens has often been described as the "poor man's steel rim," offering a vintage aesthetic at a more accessible price.
Summilux Double Aspherical
One of the rarest Leica lenses, the Double Aspherical Summilux was meticulously crafted, offering unmatched contrast and color saturation. With an estimated 1,000 to 2,000 units produced, this lens is highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
Summilux FLE – The Modern Gold Standard
The Summilux FLE (Floating Lens Elements) is widely regarded as one of the best modern 35mm lenses. With exceptional sharpness, contrast, and smooth autofocus transition, it remains a favorite among digital and film photographers alike.
