Best buys in a Leica lens?

[ampguy]

an example

an example

Note the resolution of the bark here:

I don't think other lenses come close to approaching this resolution and lack of distortion:

Its not that there is anything to dislike about the 35 cron asph per se, only that there is a lot of good competition (including from Leica). It certainly is not unique in the way the Noctilux is. When used summarits hit the market this might further reduce used asph cron prices. A used biogon could be had for well under half the price of a used asph and a new biogon is still about $600 less (enough to buy a new 50 planar too). I think all these factors have pushed asph cron prices down.

From popflash, I recall the lens could be had new for under $2k. Certainly quite a bit cheaper than now.

 

[Turtle]

Note the resolution of the bark here:

I don't think other lenses come close to approaching this resolution and lack of distortion:

You dont have to defend your favourite; I was not attacking its performance, only suggesting that there is some darned good competition out there, which are superb (arguably better, but this is a matter of opinion) value. I think a used $1400 lens appears good value only in terms of insane new prices at present. I was suggesting that when one steps outside of the leica stable, the high prices become much more apparent. Plenty of people prefer the cron asph, just as plenty prefer the biogon, regardless of price.

I would have to agree with an earlier poster in the 90 Elmarit M (Latest) being great value used. I have one and it is a lovely lens. At $750 or so in mint condition, it is genuinely good value I think.

PS The ZM biogon has incredible resolution and lack of distortion. The asph cron may beat it wide open on centre, but the biogon beats it at the edges at all apertures - take your pick, but remember there is an epic price difference for two lenses that are arguably comparable, but with different strengths. At f2.8 and beyond the ZM is not to be beaten on centre however. In the shot you posted, edge resolution wide open would be important. The ZM Biogon really is in a league of its own in this regard according to every comparative test I have read. Besides, who cares. You like it. I am sure I would like it, apart from the price. I think the used asph cron is great value for those prepared to fork out for a new summarit, but for those open to zeiss, it is still a lot of money. It is smaller than the Biogon, however, but not by a huge amount and probably larger with a hood. I have not once managed to make the biogon flare so have no intention of buying a hood. some users do complain of flare with the asph cron however.

 

[Travelbug]

I just bought an old (1960's) Elmarit M 2.8 90mm includung both caps and a 12538 hood for 100 Euro from the bay. The glass is clean and has no scratches. The aperture ring is a bit stiff and the barrel has some play but I think with a CLA for about 150 Euro it's a very good deal. Maybe I'll sell my recent Elmarit 90 for it because it's a bit heavy for the pocket and the vintage one looks much better on my M2. Before I eventually decide I'll shoot a bit with both.

 

[Austerby]

I recently sold a good Summaron 35mm f3.5 for £165 - I was hoping for more, but this was the best offer. It was my third attempt at selling so there really wasn't much interest in this lens. Given its beautiful build quality and excellent performance I'd say it was an absolute bargain.

 

[raid]

I agree with you on this point. I have a mintish Summaron 35/3.5 screwmount, and I recently got it cleaned for better performance. It is like a little jewel.

 

[urban_alchemist]

I don't particularly like my Elmar 50/2.8, but I have to admit it was a bargain (and I think it is my ownership of the 50Cron and Lux that are clouding my judgement rather than the quality of the lense itself)...