35 summilux pre asph compatibility issue

[fenixv8]

Can anyone properly explain to me the compatibility issue with some of the 35mm summilux pre asph on digital Leica rangefinders.

quoted from my manual:

"Some versions of the Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 (not aspherical,
manufactured from 1961-1995, Made in Canada) cannot be attached to the camera or will not focus to infinity. The Leica Customer Care department can modify these lenses so that they can be used on the camera."

I was wondering if there was a way to identify before purchasing.

Thank you,

Chris

 

[fenixv8]

nvm found the issues documented

1mm of material needs to be removed from baffle. Anyone know how much Leica or DAG charges for this?

 

[iaeaix]

I don't think it will be issue. My experience is limited with 3 Summilux 35mm v1(aka steel rim) and 3 Summilux 35mm v2 though.
And it was M9 I used them with, none of them had issue with M9.


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[fenixv8]

Thank you iaeaix, good to hear that its not that common. I was just thinking, how would I even know that I had a bad copy? Once I have the lens how woul dI even test for this?

 

[iaeaix]

Thank you iaeaix, good to hear that its not that common. I was just thinking, how would I even know that I had a bad copy? Once I have the lens how woul dI even test for this?

You would need to ask seller the question upfront if you want to be sure. If he/she is not able to answer, ask if return is acceptable for that matter.
Incompatibility means two scenarios:
1. The lens rear might possibly hit the camera's "side walls" around the sensor.
it will not hit the sensor for sure - even Super Angulon and Elmarit 28mm v1 (these two have "longest" rear lens element among leicas) will not hit the sensor.
In your case, this might be the concern.
2. Focus shift.
This can't be fixed but as you use the lens more, it becomes less an issue.
I love the compact size of such a Leica 35mm fl with large 1.4 aperture.


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[John inglis]

Does anyone have more to say regarding the 35 summilux pre on an M10? I have a very early Canadian version 2 with goggles and wonder if it might work.

 

[a.noctilux]

In my use, M10 is the most tolerant in this respect.
I think Leica had done a bit of recessing the bottom chamber of the M10.
M10 is the first digital M in which I can use one of my SOMNI (DR Cron) without mod.


To be certain not to break something in your M10 or lens, before mounting on M10, set your Summilux 35 to the closest focus (or even to about 1m 1.5m that would work),
then mount your lens as usual, after that set the lens slowly to infinity.
If there is no "hard stop" to infinity, your lens is compatible with all digital M.

🙂
Enjoy your nice Summilux 35 which must give stellar images.

 

[John inglis]

Thankyou so much!