Dan Kerin

 Leica 50mm F/1.4 Summilux V3

After a 30 year production run in 1992 Leica finally updated their 50mm f1.4 Summilux, with the 3rd iteration the version 3. Optically this lens is the same as its predecessor, having 7 elements in 5 groups, half stop aperture clicks and 12 aperture blades. This just goes to show how good the design of the version 2 was which dates back to 1961! The lens does have a revised body, supporting a slightly larger filter thread of 46mm and a retractable lens hood which I find to always be a nice addition. For me the only additional feature that I think would really sway someone to buy the version 3 over the version 2 is the 0.7m focusing distance. This is an upgrade over the 1m close focus on the version 2 and something to keep in mind if you usually work close.

I was testing this lens in a recent trip to Thailand and Vietnam where I was also reviewing the Leica 50mm Summilux version 1. Mounted on the camera the lens feels great. Being a Summilux I was expecting it to be heavier than I am used to but the extra weight is not noticeable and didn’t upset the balance of the camera like some super-fast lenses can. I paired this lens with a Leica M3 which while did allow me to have the greatest rangefinder accuracy did mean I could not focus below 1m. I used this lens extensively in Hanoi where 80% of my photos would be taken using this lens.

I found the 50mm to be a great focal length in Hanoi, allowing me to isolate subject and not have much ‘clutter’ in the frame. I was also using a 28mm on my other body however this was much more challenging to use because the streets of Hanoi are very tight and always busy so it was often difficult to frame scenes without people walking through them. From travelling with this lens one of the biggest benefits was the f/1.4 maximum aperture. I have not touched on this topic before but even though you may not always be shooting wide open having that extra speed can be especially helpful when travelling. I personally light to travel light so just having one lens that can do everything is especially useful and the Summilux is a great choice as its not overly big or heavy but does give an extra stop over a Summicron which especially when shooting film at night can make or break a shot.

I found the lens to perform very well combining the benefits of a classic optical design from the version2 Summilux, with modern design such as a lightweight design, 0.7m close focus, modern lens coatings and a built-in lens hood. It is no secret I do prefer older lenses but this lens was a real joy to use and opened my eyes to the performance that newer Leica lenses can offer. I think for anyone wanting a Leica lens which retains some of the character of older Leica lenses but has a modern design this lens is a must. I have not tested the ASPH version of this lens but like with the 28 and 35mm Summicron ASPH I doubt there would be much difference when shot on film.