Leica has announced three new versions of its classic medium-wide lenses, Summicrons in 28 and 35mm and an updated f/2.8 38mm Elmarit. The company says that all deliver enhanced performance and quality as a result of the new optical design. They are also now more robust, featuring full-metal rectangular lens hoods with thread mount and a threaded protection ring for the lens when the hood is not attached. The lens cap is also now made of metal.
The new generation Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH and the Elmarit-M 28mm f/2.8 ASPH will be available in stores from the end of January. I heard this morning from Ivor Cooper that Red Dot Cameras already has one of each for sale but they are unlikely to be long on the shelf.
The Summicron-M f/2 ASPH is a fast classic prime lens which Leica says will deliver a superior image performance and unique bokeh. With its eleven-blade iris, this new generation lens creases a circular aperture, lending out-of-focus areas an extremely smooth look and feel—according to the press release. It will be available at the beginning of February.
The new 28mm Elmarit will cost £1,650 and the 28mm Summicron £2,975. The 35mm Summicron will be £2,250 in black and £2,350 in silver.