50 elmar 2.8 #1637xxx thoughts

W

Way

Guest
I just saw a 50 elmar 2.8 #1637xxx M-mount at my local camera
shop and was wondering if this would a good low contrast lens?
Looks like it's in LN condition - clean glass, chrome is very
good. Very heavy for such a small size! Price is just under $400.
Any thoughts would be appreciated!

Way
 
No personal experience, but based on my reading, I would not call this a low-contrast lens.
 
If that is the new Elmar, it is not low contrast. It pretty well matches the current summicron.

Older 2.8 Elmars are a little lower in contrast.

The lowest you can get is the 50 collasible Summicron or Summitar or one of the uncoated samples for the absolute lowest.
 
Way,
I had that same lens for awhile. This is the original elmar 2.8.
I wouldn't say it is low contrast- more like medium contrast is correct.
Mine had a very nice tonal range in BW, blacks and whites were both warm, and with good grey tones. Overall it had a very nice glow.
I sold it because the aperture ring turns with the focusing ring, so using the lens requires some finess. It is the only collapsible that works this way, all the others-summitar, cron- have focusing and aperture rings that turn independently.
That price is on the high side. I think you could do better depending where you are located (US, EU). Overall, it is a nice lens.
 
Appreciate the comments!

ERV - I noticed that problem when turning the aperture ring and it made the lens
cumbersome. But it was a beautiful lens!

Seems that it has been my lucky day because I have a purchase pending on a Canon
50 1.4 that is going to fit my purposes. Thanks!

Way
 
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