Leica ELMARIT-M 28mm f/2.8 ASPH (39mm filters) help.

[jsrockit]

I'm thinking of purchasing one of these lenses for the M8.2. I've been looking around for a used one, but am getting confused. Some dealers make it easy by saying E46, but some do not. Also, some will list a serial number. However, I cannot find the serial number range for the E39 version. Basically I want to buy a used E39 version and was wondering if there is any other way to tell, in dealers used lists, whether it is a E39 model without calling and asking them all (if only supplied with a serial number).

 

[jvan01]

the Leica Part # is 13410 for the E39 UVa/IR filter. Good luck.

 

[jsrockit]

the Leica Part # is 13410 for the E39 UVa/IR filter. Good luck.

Not what I asked at all, but thanks.

 

[martin s]

You're talking about the ASPH version, it'll be a lot more expensive and most likely clearly labeled with 'aspherical' or ASPH.

They're rare, and usually "too expensive". I'd consider buying a new one, or a 46mm pre-ASPH.

//EDIT: Here's a link with serial numbers: http://www.antiquecameras.net/leica28mmmlenses.html

martin

 

[SolaresLarrave]

It seems that Leica used to release serial numbers in the past, but no longer does it. You're better off with the filter size or the part number.

BTW, I have the third version of this lens, the one that takes 49mm filters. If you want to buy the one that takes 39mm filters, I think that's the ASPH (latest) version. But you already knew that, I'm sure.

Best of luck!

 

[jsrockit]

If you want to buy the one that takes 39mm filters, I think that's the ASPH (latest) version. But you already knew that, I'm sure.

That's what I initially thought... but then it appears that there may be some that are not E39 that are ASPH... is this true? If not, then I'm all set because then it is easy as looking for an ASPH model.

 

[dogberryjr]

Maybe concentrate on part number? It's 11606, by the way. I've not heard of a non-39mm ASPH.

 

[Vic]

This is another link. Click on a particular lens to get the serial number for each production year.

http://www.l-camera-forum.com/leica-wiki.en/index.php/M_Lenses_x_Focal_Length

 

[35mmdelux]

Ive bought several 28 asph for $1200-1300 a pop. They look like a 35mm summicron (small).

 

[jsrockit]

Ok, it is looking more and more like ASPH and 39mm go hand in hand. Thanks all.

 

[jsrockit]

Ive bought several 28 asph for $1200-1300 a pop.

May I ask where to look>? I haven't seen them that cheap yet.

 

[Tim Gray]

Yes there is only one 28/2.8 ASPH, and it takes 39mm filters.

Used prices for them seemed to have crept up. They were much lower about a year ago before the prices on the new lenses were raised and there was a $300 rebate on them. I think you could get a new one then for around $1200.

 

[Vic]

Igor is a good seller, I've bought lenses from him in the past. Look up the website and give him a phone call:

http://www.igorcamera.com/leica_lenses.htm

There was a run up in the used 28mm prices because of the M8 camera, so I don't think you'll find the Asph for $1200 to $1300. That was the price a year ago when Robert White (of England) was running a promotion. Since then, Leica AG has had a few increases (they do it every quarter) and that has affected the used market.

One of the criticisms I have read about the Asph lens is that it is made for digital cameras, and has a rather harsh rendering. The pre-Asph lenses is favored by those who like the classic Leica look. Do some more research before committing to the Asph or pre-Asph.

 

[jsrockit]

Thanks Vic (and everyone)... I'm looking for a very compact 28mm, so the ASPH is the only game in town for me. Currently I'm using the CV Ultron... it's large like the older Leica 28s. I tend to go for a more modern look than the older leica look. However, either will be a step up from the CV. My other option is to go for older 35mm Summicron (which I've owned in the past and love). I just have to decide, while using these CV lenses (28 Ultron & 35mm PII), which focal length is more important to me now.

 

[Bill Blackwell]

It should be easy - the Elmarit-M Asph. is the only E39 version, while the Elmarit-M is one of three E46 versions.

There is no such E46 "Asph." version.

 

[Bill Blackwell]

Look here:

http://www.popflash.com/index.php?p=product&id=2389

 

[jsrockit]

Look here:

http://www.popflash.com/index.php?p=product&id=2389

Thanks, I saw that one... but only $130 off the original price for a used lens that costs $1995 new... seems a little too much for used. That's not even 10%.

 

[Bill Blackwell]

Thanks, I saw that one... but only $130 off the original price for a used lens that costs $1995 new... seems a little too much for used. That's not even 10%.

Maybe the reason is it’s actually a new lens being sold (under MSP) within Leica guidelines for a franchised dealer. Notice the "in-store" warranty matches the duration of Leica's warranty.

Just a guess...
😉

 

[Tim Gray]

If you want a compact 28, and can stand f/3.5, look for the Cosina 28/3.5. Awesome and tiny. I use it as a small alternative to my 28/2.

 

[jsrockit]

If you want a compact 28, and can stand f/3.5, look for the Cosina 28/3.5. Awesome and tiny. I use it as a small alternative to my 28/2.

I've had it before. It was good, but it was too slow IMHO which is why I tried the f/2. I've decided that f/2.8 is the slowest I'm willing to go anymore. I know the CV is not even a stop slower, but it's a mental thing. Plus, I haven't owned a modern Leica lens since the 90s and I'd like to try them again. I noticed the difference then and am curious if I'll notice the difference still.

The good news is that a friend will let me borrow his 35mm summicron this weekend and I'll test it vs. my PII CV 35mm.

The Leica 28mm supposedly has no distortion... and if that is true, that is huge to me.