Any user comments on the Leica R 19mm f2.8 (second model) lens?

[Vickko]

My GAS is having me look at super wide Leica R lenses. I do have a nice R6.2 that deserves a bit more shooting time.

Any user comments on the Leica R 19mm f2.8 (second model) lens?

I can't find a lot on the web. It looks like an interesting lens, and might be fun to use on an SLR, saving the peculiarities of using an auxiliary finder.

And it looks far more economical than the Leica 15mm f2.8 ($1600 for the 19/2.8, over $5K for the 15mm)

regards


Vick

 

[Gary E]

If you can find it at the price you stated, buy it as soon as you can. It is really a great lens. Little distortion (if any) shot level, has built in filters and is compact. I've used this alongside a 21/4 SA and it's no comparison. I usually carry this along with a 50/2 and find I don't miss the in between FL's like 21, 24, 28 or 35.

Though I am not sure about flaring without a hood, make sure you get a hood along with the lens as it costs about $150 USD for the hood.