Key Takeaways
1. The Leica Summicron-M 35 mm f/2 Type 4 is highly valued, often selling for over $1,000 used, with some asking over $2,000 for good condition lenses.
2. Designed by Walter Mandler, the lens is known for its unique optical performance and has a strong reputation in photography.
3. A Chinese manufacturer has released a replica of the lens at a lower price, mimicking both the design and optical structure, but made from aluminum.
4. The lens features seven elements in five groups, modified for enhanced image quality, but still shows noticeable field curvature and may not be sharp when fully open.
5. The Mandler 35 mm f/2.0 lens is available for $348 for Leica M mount and $378 for LTM mount, with accessory bundles offered, but the Leica M version is currently sold out.
The Leica Summicron-M 35 mm f/2 Type 4, often referred to as the “King of Bokeh,” continues to fetch prices exceeding $1,000 for used units, with some sellers even asking over $2,000 for lenses in good condition. This iconic lens was produced by Leica from 1979 to 1996.
Unique Optical Performance
Designed by the notable Leica optical engineer Walter Mandler, this lens remains popular due to its distinctive visual output. Recently, a Chinese manufacturer has released a copy of this lens. The new version closely resembles the original in both housing design and optical structure, but it comes at a significantly reduced price. Despite being cheaper, the replica is crafted from aluminum. This lens measures around 1.3 inches in length and weighs 4.9 ounces, with a brass version available that tips the scales at 7.4 ounces.
Improved Image Quality
The lens features a design of seven elements arranged in five groups, and it has been slightly modified to enhance image quality when used with digital sensors. However, as shown in the manufacturer’s MTF curves, it still exhibits noticeable field curvature, resulting in sharper images at the center and corners compared to the mid-section. Notably, even at the center, the sharpness might not be outstanding when the lens is fully open.
The Mandler 35 mm f/2.0 “7 Elements” full-frame lens is currently available for purchase on the manufacturer’s website. It can be bought with a Leica M mount for $348 or with an LTM screw mount priced at $378. The silver model adds an additional cost of $30, and there are accessory bundles that include a lens hood for more. At the moment, the Leica M version is sold out but is anticipated to return in March. Shipping from China is complimentary, although buyers should be aware that import fees may apply.
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