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Dad Photographer
What are $350 in 1990 Dollars worth today? $351 or maybe much more? Some ebay sellers ask for $480+. There is today an ubandance of offers for such lenses.
Of all their 35's, I actually have both that interest you, the 1.8 and 2.8. I can not comment on their design -not my thing, but outwardly they appear to be same basic lens. That said, I seem to always grab the 2.8. I really like both of them though. Well built, nice sized, and rather handsome lenses in black/chrome. I am very pleased with their output:cost.
I just had a quick play with them. They definitely share some common components, but the 2.8 is actually a longer (bigger) lens than the 1.8. Subtle, but there is a difference. Of course, the 1.8 glass is of a greater diameter, but the bodies are the same. I don't know why I keep chasing Summicrons with these on the shelf. I am going to shoot them both this weekend!
I've had the 35/2.8 chrome and the 35/1.8, and still have the 35/2.0 (later version). All are good, but with different characters. The 35/2.8 chrome gives a more desaturated look to color and is tiny and well built. The 35/1.8 flares easily if you point it at a light source, but also gives glorious color and lovely b&w stopped down a bit. The 35/2.0 (the "Japanese Summicron") is very sharp and more distinctly modern in the way it renders. It's got an aluminum body, so it's light weight, and is much more flare resistant than tbe 1.8. I think it's a terrific all-round 35 lens at a fraction of the price of a Summicron. There are sample photos on my flickr from each of these lenses - just search by tags, or have a look at the Canon RF lens group on flickr.
I could do such a comparison with the M9, Frank. I now have several 35mm RF lenses.
Summicron version 1, Summilux pre-asph, Summaron 35/3.5
Canon 1.5, 1.8, 2, 2.8
I've got the 35mm f/2.8 and really like it. Nice little lens. I was debating upgrading to the fast 35mm f/2, but am not really sure.
I got more photos with 3-D effects with the little 2.8 than with any of the other Canon 35s. It's a great little lens. Gives the Summaron a run for its money, IMO.