Summicron 35 v4. Briefing please

I shot with both V3 & V4 for years and cant say I noticed much of a diff except the cost (V3 being noticeably cheaper). Ive become a speed demon, hence my preference for the Summilux.
 
Although many say their isn't much difference between the 3rd and 4th generation, there must be some reasons Leica updated the lens, they don't do it just for fun 😉 and going from 6 to 7 elements is not cost cutting.

Leica lens tester Erwin Puts mentions improved full aperture performance, higher contrast and better correction for field curvature. In actual use you may not see any difference. The larger aperture ring is nice for handling and the squared hood design helps with flare and over-all compactness, and it does take 39mm filters (3rd version series 7 in the hood).

It may not be much better than the 3rd version optically, but one advantage is that if you find a good deal on one its an easy re-sale if it comes to that, and you may even make a bit - the lens does have a following for some reason, THE Leica lens for look and handling for many :angel:
 
If you’re looking to ‘experience’ the summicron v4 and you have the coin, why not try it for yourself. If you don't like it, sell it. The closest that I ever came to Leica nirvana was when I owned the v4 summi/M6 classic combo. 😎
 
I liked the lens and the pictures it produces. but handling the aperture ring with the rectangular hood on felt quite fiddly, I much prefer my CV 2.5/35 PII or my old 3.5/35 Summaron here.
 
The CV 35 2.5 PII is a little cracker, esp for the money.

The V4 cron, as previously commented, will be easy to resell if bought at the right price should you not get along.
 
Between the v3 and v4, I say it's a tie: the v4 aperture ring is easier to use, but the v3 has the superior DOF scale. Both render identically. I have, however, shelved both in favor of the Summaron 35/2.8: nice DOF scale, awesome aperture ring, build, fabulous imaging.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom