triggerz
Member
Hello Everybody,
While reviewing variants of the Summicron 35mm f/2 ASPH, I see that there are two material versions - the black anodized aluminum and the chrome-brass. Retail prices seem to be even. What I'd like bounce off to the group here is which make has the advantage over the other in handling wear and tear thus longevity? Aluminum gains a bit of hardness when anodized. Will the black paint scratch easier compared to a chrome finish? Which will handle sliding friction inside the barrel better - brass or anodized aluminum, thus will stay 'tighter' longer? I'm asking because these lenses aren't cheap and I'd rather pick the 'better' one in case I get lucky enough to have a choice. Thank you all.
While reviewing variants of the Summicron 35mm f/2 ASPH, I see that there are two material versions - the black anodized aluminum and the chrome-brass. Retail prices seem to be even. What I'd like bounce off to the group here is which make has the advantage over the other in handling wear and tear thus longevity? Aluminum gains a bit of hardness when anodized. Will the black paint scratch easier compared to a chrome finish? Which will handle sliding friction inside the barrel better - brass or anodized aluminum, thus will stay 'tighter' longer? I'm asking because these lenses aren't cheap and I'd rather pick the 'better' one in case I get lucky enough to have a choice. Thank you all.
peterm1
Veteran
My preference is always for the chromed brass versions, mainly for aesthetics. I like the look and do not mind the subtantial extra weight over the aluminium ones. One possible technical advantage is that brass is regarded as kind of self lubricaing and this may make operation smoother for longer. (someone les able to comment). I can also vouch for the fact that anodized aluminium does wear and you will tend to get rub marks on edges etc over a more prolonged period of time. having siad all of that if you drop a brass one the extra mass = extra damage and brass does deform relatively easily.
bob338
Well-known
I've had both chrome and black, I prefer the chrome. The focus feels slightly heavier, maybe a little more solid.
I've haven't been paying attention to pricing lately, but the chrome ones have always gone for quite a bit more than the black ones. Just about 5 years ago I bought a black one for $900, then I found a chrome one for $1400. I guess those days are over.
I've haven't been paying attention to pricing lately, but the chrome ones have always gone for quite a bit more than the black ones. Just about 5 years ago I bought a black one for $900, then I found a chrome one for $1400. I guess those days are over.
triggerz
Member
Thank you peterm1 and bob338 for your replies. I was tilting towards the chrome myself but didn't want to stay there without others' concurrence.
I prefer black lenses on black or silver bodies. However, that never stops me from buying silver, chrome, brass, etc. My black aluminum summicrons are worn and show age.
Beemermark
Veteran
I also prefer the chrome ones. I think the extra weight is a plus. They used to be priced the same for new lenses.
leica M2 fan
Veteran
A also much prefer the chromed brass, seem more sturdy and to me more elegant.
Tom A
RFF Sponsor
For longevity i dont think there is a difference. Modern alloy are in many ways superior to brass. They will hold lubricants better and do not "tarnish" which brass can do. The helicoil thread will also hold up better in modern alloy than in brass. The added weight over a black anodized lens makes it feel more substantial - and often the heavy weight implies better durability.
Anodized alloy will wear faster and show a base-metal sheen whilst chrome last longer - but if it starts to wear through - big problems. Mind you we are talking about decades of wear and abuse in either case.
I also dislike chrome barrels as engravings are more difficult to see - aperture and focus scales become invisible in bright light. That said, a chrome 35f2 Summicron on a chrome M2 is a thing of beauty any day (but so is a black 35 Summicron on a "weathered" black M2).
Anodized alloy will wear faster and show a base-metal sheen whilst chrome last longer - but if it starts to wear through - big problems. Mind you we are talking about decades of wear and abuse in either case.
I also dislike chrome barrels as engravings are more difficult to see - aperture and focus scales become invisible in bright light. That said, a chrome 35f2 Summicron on a chrome M2 is a thing of beauty any day (but so is a black 35 Summicron on a "weathered" black M2).
Landshark
Well-known
Internally you're going to find brass and aluminum in the newer lenses. brass on brass on the older.
The differences between the lenses finish is the anodizing will show wear much more rapidly. If you can compare well used lenses of both types it's very obvious.
The differences between the lenses finish is the anodizing will show wear much more rapidly. If you can compare well used lenses of both types it's very obvious.
peter_n
Veteran
I prefer the brass lenses even though they're heavier, just a personal thing. Chrome or black paint finish, I don't care. There are two other finishes to the Summicron 35mm f/2 ASPH; titanium and black paint. I have the BP version and it's just really nice and smooth to use; a wonderful lens.