Filter options for E43 Summilux

[nickthetasmaniac]

Hi all, just a quick question.

I'm after a protective/UV filter for a v2 50mm Summilux E43, and I was wondering what non-Leica options are available? I'm not overly keen to pay Leica prices for a filter, and a lot of the filter manufacturers don't publish tech details such as thread pitch...

Cheers, Nick

*edit* I'm not particularly worried if the filter won't be compatible with Leica's reversible hood, I just don't want to damage the lens' thread.

 

[crosseyed-cricket]

I tried a B+W UV filter on my v1 E43 summilux, but the filter glass contacts the front lens element when screwed on, so I don't use it. Make sure you're careful of that...I think many modern filters will not work.

To test a filter, breathe on the lens to fog it slightly and then slowly thread the filter on. If you see a spot in the center appear, stop.

 

[iaeaix]

I tried a B+W UV filter on my v1 E43 summilux, but the filter glass contacts the front lens element when screwed on, so I don't use it. Make sure you're careful of that...I think many modern filters will not work.

To test a filter, breathe on the lens to fog it slightly and then slowly thread the filter on. If you see a spot in the center appear, stop.

I have been using the BW filter on V1, it does not touch the front element though?
It is the chrome UV filter.

Sent from my DMC-CM1 using Tapatalk

 

[:: Mark]

Yes, B+W seem to have an excellent range of filters for 43mm. I have s set of black and white contrast filters which work very well. The only catch is finding somewhere that stocks them - they are usually special order in the shops here.

 

[rulnacco]

As it's a German lens, your best option may be German filters--as long as they have the E prefix in front of the filter size, they should have the correct thread pitch.

Another option to B+W--and possibly less expensive--would be Heliopan. They're still very good quality--they use brass rather than aluminium for the ring--and unlike B+Ws, they don't seem to be somewhat over-engineered. So it may be that you won't find the problem outlined above where the filter glass potentially contacts the front element.

Personally, I just went with the original Leitz filter on mine, as I was able to find one at my favourite local camera shop (he gave me a good price as I buy so much from him), although of course they generally are quite pricey. At the same time, they look like they *belong* on the lens!

 

[Paulbe]

I just checked and the B+W filter on the E43 does not touch the glass.
Good to know!!
Paul

 

[BTMarcais]

FYI, if you have the original hood, it doesn't fit over most of the non-leica/leitz filters. They made a special thin no-front-threads E43 filter of the summilux that works with the hood. Took me a few filters to figure that out... :-/

-brian

 

[segedi]

This thread just reminded me that I have some 43mm B+W filters I need to sell...
Dark Red
Yellow
Strong UV (warming)

B+W filters are excellent. I've tried other brands and nothing works as well for me. great light transmission on the UV filters. Easy to clean as the coating isn't "sticky".