Leica reintroduces 50mm f/1.4 Summilux lens from 1959 for modern Leica M cameras
Leica is expanding its Classic lineup with the Summilux-M 1:1.4/50, which is based on the second version of this lens from 1962 but has a body design that was inspired by the original Summilux from 1959. Lenses based on this optical design were sold until 2004, which is when the Summilux-M 1.4/50 ASPH hit the market.
The Leica M lens is made of brass, which makes it relatively heavy at 14.7 ounces. The lens hood is included and must be attached if needed. It’s not directly integrated into the housing, which is the case with Leica's more modern lenses. The lens has seven elements in five groups, twelve aperture blades and a 46 millimeter filter thread. What's new is that the lens can focus on objects from a distance of just 27.6 inches.
Imaging performance like in 1962
A closer look at the MTF curves shows that the optical quality of the lens is no longer up to date. More specifically, the edges and corners of images are not as detailed. However, the lens produces images with a relatively sharp center, which is perfect for portraits. The sample photos embedded below illustrate what buyers can expect from the Summilux lens.
Leica emphasizes that the lens is assembled in Germany and made from 105 individual parts. Like all Leica M lenses, the new Summilux also covers the entire image circle of a full-frame sensor, but autofocus is not supported.
Price and availability
The new Leica Summilux-M 1:1.4/50 Classic is now available for an MSRP of $3,895 at B&H Photo Video. For reference, the more modern Summilux-M 1:1.4/50 ASPH retails for $4,695 at the German company’s official online store.
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