Apo-Summicron-M 90mm f2 90/2 ASPH Question

[bwcolor]

Version(s) of this lens have been made for ten years. When shopping for a used 90mm Asph, are there various versions and if so how are they identified? I'm coming from the Canon world where I shoot a good bit of 85mm f/1.2L and would like to pickup a tele for my Ikon.

 

[bwcolor]

Thanks... So, I gather that other than finish/weight, there really aren't any differences between these version.

So, what accounts for the difference in weight?

 

[thrice]

Brass as opposed to aluminium.

 

[bwcolor]

Ah, that was what I was wondering. It seems to me that unless the weight is objectionable, brass might just be a better way to go.

Regarding the Titanium:

I've read conflicting statements regarding the Titanium. I read one post claiming that it was solid Titanium, but Titanium is very difficult to machine. I've seen it referred to as Titanium finish, so I'm guessing that it is simply a finish over brass, which really isn't worth the premium asked on the used market. Please correct this should my assumptions prove false.

 

[peter_n]

Yes I think the titanium is a finish. All the fancy versions are brass barrels & rings, the regular black chrome is aluminum. AFAIK all are optically identical.

 

[Bill Blackwell]

Be careful!

The prior version 90mm Summicron looks identical to the latest Apo Apsh. version. What differentiates these barrels is the Apo engraving across the retractable lens hood.

There has never been more than one Apo Asph 90mm lens from Leica.

 

[thrice]

Anyone want to sell me one? I have the R version of this lens and I love it!