Dilemma

[pepeguitarra]

If you already have the Summicron 50/2 Collapsible, and you also have the choice to buy: a) Summicron 50/2 rigid (around $900), and b) Summicron 50/2 (IV) (around $1,500), which one would you buy and why?

Thanks, Pepe

 

[Doug]

What are you looking for, that isn't in the 50 collapsible? When you can identify that characteristic, then you'll want to look for something that has it. 🙂

 

[pepeguitarra]

Black & White resolution and contrast on a M8 and M9.

 

[Timmyjoe]

I had a 50 cron collapsable that was in very good shape (no cleaning marks on front or rear elements), but I didn't find it to be quite sharp enough for my liking. It did have a wonderful level of contrast when shooting it with B&W film. Back when I still had my M8, Leica was telling folks not to use the collapsable 50 cron on the M8 cameras because of a fear of the back of the lens contacting the sensor glass.

I eventually sold it and purchased a 50 Cron current version, before they were doing six bit coding, so probably from the late 1990's. I LOVE the new lens and don't regret selling the collapsable one for this one. Contrast is higher, but still very beautiful with B&W and not at all bad with color, and the little thing is sharp as a tack.

 

[pepeguitarra]

This is what I get with the Collapsible:

This is what I get with the Collapsible:

Can I do better with the Rigid? on the M8 or M9:

Dana Harbour by Pepe Guitarra, on Flickr

SunnyLagunaBeach1-1 by Pepe Guitarra, on Flickr


Stores and Restaurants along the PCH in Laguna Beach by Pepe Guitarra, on Flickr


Wet Grape Leaves by Pepe Guitarra, on Flickr

Pomelo by Pepe Guitarra, on Flickr

 

[pepeguitarra]

You are right!

You are right!

What are you looking for, that isn't in the 50 collapsible? When you can identify that characteristic, then you'll want to look for something that has it. 🙂

I realize I may be looking for a justification for my LBA! 🙁

 

[MCTuomey]

None of them. I'd buy a ZM Planar 50/2 as an alternative to the 50 coll's color and contrast.

 

[andriirad]

Cron 50mm IV is absolutely fantastic lens (used to have one for a year or so), but I would never buy it for 1500 - its just to "regular" price. Take your time and you will get one from ebay for 1000 or little less. Around 2 weeks ago there was one in great condition, on ebay, just for little more than 900 usd.
Also you can try to find nice Cron 50mm III, which I personally found superb. Can't even say - which one is better III or IV. Type III Cron is probably the one of the most underrated lens, what you can buy used. Steal deal)