Complement to my Rigid 'Cron 50 | M3

[fr3derick]

Hey guys!

I've been reading, and contemplating, a few Zeiss lenses over the past couple of days, and I've narrowed down to either of the Zeiss ZM 35/2.8, 35/2 or the 21/2.8 (Really can't do with a 21/4.5) as a 'wide-angle' lens to complement my Rigid 'Cron 50 on my M3.

I was just wondering which you guys think is the best choice? For now I'm leaning towards the 35/2.8 for it's sheer size, but does the 35/2 or the 21/2.8 handle like the Summicron (in terms of size especially)? If their sizes are similar as my current 'Cron, I really don't see an issue with using them 🙂

Oh, and which is the best viewfinder for me, both 21mm and 35mm? The Zeiss one?

Thanks so much fellas!
Frederick

 

[ferider]

Since budget doesn't seem to be an issue, I suggest a clean googled Summicron or Summaron. Fits your Summicron (high center resolution, similar contrast), short min. focus (0.6m), and the googles are ugly but so useful .... Same filter size too, a big plus in my book.

If you don't mind an external VF, the modern best wide fit to the rigid is the CV 28/1.9, IMO. Similar contrast and center resolution, again. As good as Leica or Zeiss lenses, performance wise, even Reid reviews and Puts confirm that (the only "better" lens - and wide open only - being the 28/2 ASPH). Photovillage sells these still new (in chrome), and so does the bartender.

Roland.

 

[Sparrow]

yep, I agree, the f2.8 summaron is very like the ridged summicron in monochrome, although it's a tad warmer with colour ... however I would want more contrast than either of those have if I were shooting colour regularly

 

[mfogiel]

A 35mm is too close to 50mm and 21mm is too far away. Go after Roland's advice.

 

[Moriturii]

I sold my 35mm f2.8 Summaron that I used with my M2 and bought a Konica Hexar AF for half the cash that I sold my Summaron for. Has as good of a lens as any of the best 35mm lenses out there. Food for thought for you.

 

[raid]

I find the 35mm lens to complement the 50mm lens. I use the V1 Summicron 35/2 as my favorite 35mm lens. The Summilux 35/1.4 comes next in line.

 

[fr3derick]

Hey guys,

Thanks for your inputs! Got me thinking..

I'm just wondering, is the 35/2 Biogon not comparable to the Summicron 35 of the 60s? I'm liking what I've seen so far, so yup.

Also, would anyone who's handled both the Rigid Summicron and the Biogan 35/2, or the 21/2.8 be able to comment on the size? If they're similar, I think I'm actually leaning to the Zeiss-es?

Is there any particular reason why I'm being pointed to the Summicron 35? Are the signatures of these Zeiss lenses drastically different from the 'Cron?

Thanks so much again!

 

[jsrockit]

I'm just wondering, is the 35/2 Biogon not comparable to the Summicron 35 of the 60s? I'm liking what I've seen so far, so yup.

The Biogon is a very modern lens... sharp and contrasty.

Also, would anyone who's handled both the Rigid Summicron and the Biogan 35/2?

The Biogon takes 43mm filters and is about the same in length to my 50mm Summicron V3.

Is there any particular reason why I'm being pointed to the Summicron 35? Are the signatures of these Zeiss lenses drastically different from the 'Cron?

Different? Yes. Inferior, No. The Summicron is smaller... that's the only thing that would ever make me sell the Biogon to get a 35mm Summicron.

Biogon versus ASPH Summicron thread: http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=47704

 

[fr3derick]

Hm, thanks again!

I just realized I may get a deal on a Summicron 35 with the goggles (the M3 version) for less than the biogon, only that it's made in Canada. The optics will be identical I presume?

Thanks!

 

[ferider]

Being able to use the googles and the viewfinder on the M3 would be a huge plus for me. That's why I pointed you to the Summicron instead of Biogon. Don't worry about Canada vs. Germany. The design of most famous classic Leica lenses originates in Canada (your 50, for example).

 

[fr3derick]

Hey mate,

I see, I see. I think if I can get that Summicron 35 with the goggles at cheaper than a Biogon, then I just may (now where's that elusive email..)!

The thing is that it is in near mint condition, and I don't believe it's optical qualities will be in any way inferior to the Biogon?

 

[ferider]

It's just different, Frederick. In good condition it is probably sharper in the center and softer in the corners than the Biogon (wide open), and has less contrast. Also, the Summicron is better built. This is very similar when comparing your rigid, say, to a ZM 50/2. Try it out ... you can always swap later since you seem to be getting a good price.

Roland.

 

[raid]

As usual, I agree with what Roland has said.

The V1 35mm Summicron is now a classic, and its value keeps on increasing, so you will be able to sell it if you don't like it, and for no loss.
The M3 by itself is a reason for using Leica, and once you use an M3, you might as well use a lens that has goggles so that you clearly see the 35mm coverage.

Enjoy.