50mm Summicron v3

I think v3 is a very under-rated lens. It handles beautifully and delivers nice images. For flare control the vented hood helps a lot.
 
Was a little hesitant after reading some of the negativity around the v3. Really happy with what came out in my first roll. Film was TMAX 400.


Saying hello by Nick_B, on Flickr


Like my shoes? by Nick_B, on Flickr


Waiting for coffee by Nick_B, on Flickr


People still need fruit in the rain by Nick_B, on Flickr

I also read something somewhere that this version isn't as 'good' as other versions. Does anyone know how it garnered this reputation for poorer performance??

The images that members posted above are lovely, especially the b+w images.

I would love to hear more on this issue from members who have experience with the different versions of this lens. I am not particularly interested in the ASPH. I once owned a version IV made in Canada and it was a stellar performer, but in black and white I am more drawn to the effect that Helen got with that painterly look. My version seemed more corrected and clinical with less character.

Anyway, I could be wrong!
 
oh well the the v3 is the only Summicron I own so far and it is superb. Does not beat the M-Hexanon, but I prefer the ergonomics and feel of the focusing ring better on the Summicron.

Imagewise I cannot see a difference, really.
 
I have owned and used all versions of the 50mm Cron from version 1 (the collapsible Summicron) to version 4, the tabbed version (Tabbicron). I sold the version 4 and got a version 3 instead, because I prefer its longer focus throw and longer, more spread out DOF scale. IQ-wise, I think it's just as good as the 4.
 
I have owned and used all versions of the 50mm Cron from version 1 (the collapsible Summicron) to version 4, the tabbed version (Tabbicron). I sold the version 4 and got a version 3 instead, because I prefer its longer focus throw and longer, more spread out DOF scale. IQ-wise, I think it's just as good as the 4.
Couldn't Agree more... like You had all the crons though my last was the v5 (same optics as 4)
Their ALL Great but its v3 that still turns my head 😉

Thank you, Helen. Nice to see you back shooting a v. 3 'chron again, and showing why this is such a lovely lens with those two photos above.
yes v3 rules... Thx !!



Framed & Smiling... at last he heard my call to slow down, turned, smiled and said by helenhill_HH, on Flickr
 
Just picked up a '69 version of this lens in beautiful condition after tossing up between a v5 cron and the ZM 1.5/50. I figured this split the difference between the classic sonnar look and the clinical v5 cron. I've put two rolls through it in the last week, and am very happy with what I see.
I'll make sure I post when something nice comes out of the camera!

Cheers,
Michael
 
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Walking towards the sunset | Flickr
M4 Portra 400

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+ | Flickr
M4 Tri-X

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FunHouse | Flickr
M4 Gold 200
 
well, but all 50mm summicrons are of planar design, aren't they?

AFAIK, but some designs favoured contrast over full frame sharpness and visa versa.

Rigid is gererally considered full frame sharpness at low contrast,
V3 favoured contrast at the expense of edge sharpness,
V4 has more edge to edge sharpness.

Of course, there's no free lunch, and these have implications on the transition between in and out of focus areas, out of focus rendering, etc.

I like the overall qualities of the V3 more than the others. I believe it to be less clinical the the V4/5 - more sonnar-like.

Michael
 
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