Leica introduces new generation of classic Leica M lenses with improved performance
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Leica Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH.
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Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH.
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Leica Elmarit-M 28mm f/2.8 ASPH.
14 January 2016
Leica Camera has introduced next-generation models of three of its classic M lenses:
the Leica M Summicron-M 35 mm f/2 ASPH., Leica Summicron-M 28 mm f/2 ASPH. and Leica Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH., each delivering enhanced image performance and quality, thanks to their new optical design.Additional improvements to the lenses include a more robust construction, now featuring a full metal rectangular lens hood with thread mount, and a threaded protection ring for the front of the lens when the hood is not attached. The lens cap is now also made of metal.
As with all Leica products, this classic trio of reportage lenses offers both optical and technical excellence. Made in Germany, the combination of state-of-the-art technology, the highest quality materials and meticulous manual construction ensures consistent quality, resulting in reliable products with outstanding durability.
The new generation Summicron-M 28 mm f/2 ASPH. and Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH. lenses are scheduled to be available from the end of January. The Summicron-M 35 mm f/2 ASPH. is scheduled to be available from February in black and, for the first time, also in a silver anodised finish.
The impressive Summicron-M 35 mm f/2 ASPH. fast, classic prime lens delivers superior image performance and a unique bokeh. Despite its high speed and exceptional image quality, its dimensions are astoundingly compact. Furthermore, with its eleven blade iris, this new generation lens creates a circular aperture, lending out of focus areas an extremely smooth look and feel. Images are pin-sharp with rich contrast, and almost completely free from distortion with superb bokeh at all apertures and distances – and even when shooting wide open.
High performance and speed are also distinct characteristics of the Summicron-M 28 mm f/2 ASPH. wide-angle lens. Its outstanding speed makes it particularly versatile and produces brilliant
imaging results, even in difficult lighting conditions. At its maximum aperture, the Summicron-M 28 mm f/2 ASPH. delivers rich contrast, differentiated reproduction of even the finest structures, a soft and smooth bokeh, and extremely high resolution. Improvements within the optical design in this new generation lens have made it possible to achieve superior image performance across the entire image field. The significant reduction of image field curvature guarantees better resolution of details from corner to corner within every picture.
The Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH. is the most compact lens in the entire portfolio of Leica M lenses. Thanks to its small size and light weight, this lens is a particular favourite with street and reportage photographers. Compared to the previous model, this new generation lens offers significantly reduced image field curvature, which brings considerably improved image performance with high resolution and brilliant resolution of details. The Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH. is practically distortion-free from infinity to its closest focusing distance of 0.7 metres, and provides an exceptionally clear view through the Leica M viewfinder.
Pricing and availability
The new Leica M lenses are scheduled to be available as follows from Leica stores and authorised Leica UK dealers:
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Leica Elmarit-M 28mm f/2.8 ASPH. (black) – end January 2016, price £1,650
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Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH. (black) – end January 2016, price £2,975
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Leica Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH. – beginning of February 2016, black version price £2,250, silver anodised version price £2,350
(Suggested retail prices including VAT)
Additional information can be found at uk.leica-camera.com.
About Leica Camera AG
Leica Camera AG is an international manufacturer of premium cameras and sport optics products. The company is headquartered in Wetzlar, Germany, with a second production site in Vila Nova de Famalicão, Portugal. Leica Camera AG operates branch offices in the UK, France, Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, South Korea, Italy, Australia and the USA. New and innovative products have been the driving force behind the company’s positive development in recent years.
Technical Information
Leica Summicron-M 35 mm f/2 ASPH.
Angle view (diagonal, horizontal, vertical):
For 35 mm (24 x 36 mm): approx. 63°/54°/38°; for M8 (18 x 27 mm): approx. 50°/42°/29°
Optical design:
Number of elements/groups: 7/5 Entrance pupil for bayonet: 18.4 mm Focusing range: 0.7 m to infinity
Distance setting:
Scale: combined metre-/feet-increments
Smallest object field:
for 35 mm: 420 x 630 mm, for M8: 315 x 472 mm Highest reproduction ratio: 1:17.4
Diaphragm:
Setting/type: preset, with click-stops, half values available
Smallest aperture: f/16
Number of aperture blades: 11
Bayonet:
Leica M quick-change bayonet
Filter thread:
E39
Lens hood:
Available, screwable (supplied)
Dimensions and weight:
Length: approx. 35.7/54.4 mm (without/with lens hood) Largest diameter without lens hood: approx. 53mm Weight: approx. 252 g/287 g (without/with lens hood and covers)
Technical Information
Leica Summicron-M 28 mm f/2 ASPH.
Angle view (diagonal, horizontal, vertical):
For 35 mm (24 x 36 mm): ca. 74°/65°/46°; for M8 (18 x 27 mm): 60°/51/35°
Optical design:
Number of elements/groups: 9/6 Entrance pupil for bayonet: 23.3 mm Focusing range: 0.7 m to infinity
Distance setting:
Scale: combined metre-/feet-increments
Smallest object field:
Smallest object field: for 35 mm: 526 x 789 mm, for M8: 395 x 592 mm
Highest reproduction ratio: 1:21.9
Diaphragm:
Setting/type: preset, with click-stops, half values available
Smallest aperture: f/16
Number of aperture blades: 10
Bayonet:
Leica M quick-change bayonet
Filter thread:
E46
Lens hood:
Available, snap-on type (supplied)
Dimensions and weight:
Length: approx. 41.4/54 mm (without/with lens hood) Largest diameter without lens hood: approx. 53 mm Weight: approx. 257 g/288.9 g (without/with lens hood and covers)
Technical Information
Leica Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH.
Angle view (diagonal, horizontal, vertical):
For 35 mm (24 x 36 mm): 75°/65°/46°;
for M8 (18 x 27 mm): 60°/51°/36°, corresponds to a focal length of approx. 37 mm in 35 mm format
Optical design:
Number of elements/groups: 8/6 Entrance pupil for bayonet: 11.8 mm Focusing range: 0.7 m to infinity
Distance setting:
Scale: combined metre-/feet-increments
Smallest object field:
Smallest object field: for 35 mm: 533 x 800 mm, for M8: 400 x 600 mm
Highest reproduction ratio: 1:22.2
Diaphragm:
Setting/type: preset, with click-stops, half values available
Smallest aperture: f/22
Number of aperture blades: 10
Bayonet:
Leica M quick-change bayonet
Filter thread:
E39
Lens hood:
Available, screwable (supplied)
Dimensions and weight:
Length: approx. 30.7/49.4 mm (without/with lens hood) Largest diameter without lens hood: approx. 52 mm Weight: approx. 175 g/211 g (without/with lens hood and covers)
E&OE