Rafael
Mandlerian
I am looking for some clarification of the expression "modern lens design," a term that seems to get used quite loosely. Obviously, there is no precise date that we can use to distinguish "modern" from "pre-modern" (?) lens designs. For example, the 50mm pre-asph Summilux (E43) was in production from 1966-1995 and the optical formula remained the same for the E46 version. As it was introduced in '66, I gather that we would not consider the 50mm pre-asph Summilux to be a modern lens design (eventhough that optical formula remained in production well into the period of "modern lens designs").
As I understand the term, "modern lens design" primarily denotes improved glass and lens coatings with corresponding increased flare resistance and increased contrast (both macro and micro?). But where do we draw the line between "modern" and "pre-modern" designs?
I ask because I am currently searching for the proper vocabulary to describe what I feel is lacking from my current set of 50mm lenses. I have read through many of the threads comparing different lens designs. And I remain somewhat confused by the different uses of this term "modern."
As I understand the term, "modern lens design" primarily denotes improved glass and lens coatings with corresponding increased flare resistance and increased contrast (both macro and micro?). But where do we draw the line between "modern" and "pre-modern" designs?
I ask because I am currently searching for the proper vocabulary to describe what I feel is lacking from my current set of 50mm lenses. I have read through many of the threads comparing different lens designs. And I remain somewhat confused by the different uses of this term "modern."
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