Benjamin Marks
Veteran
Well this is a lovely problem to have, because there are really no bad choices. I own many 50's and among my favorites are the lenses discussed in this thread. The Summicron, DR Summicron, Planar -- I'd add to the list of really great 50's the Konica Hexanon-M and the C/V Nockton with an adapter. There are differences among these lenses, but no bad choices. The one limiting factor that you mentioned is cost. In light of this, allow me to suggest first that you buy a used lens. I no longer buy new photo lenses, if I can help it. A used Summicron from the 80's can run you about half the price of even the new Planar. Same for a used Hexanon-M, which is a much newer lens, if you can find one. Also, a used lens is "pre-depreciated" -- you can almost always sell it for around what you paid for it, in contrast to a new lens, that will take a steeper, faster hit in resale price.
If you are committed to buying new, and price is the determining factor, consider the Nockton (USD $399 plus adapter) or buy the Planar and just start shooting.
Good luck, have fun with the lens and post the results of your search!
Ben Marks
If you are committed to buying new, and price is the determining factor, consider the Nockton (USD $399 plus adapter) or buy the Planar and just start shooting.
Good luck, have fun with the lens and post the results of your search!
Ben Marks
venchka
Veteran
All the usual suspects
All the usual suspects
Agreed. All the usual suspects have been mentioned. Throw Canon and Nikkor in the mix as well.
Have fun and share your photos from which ever lens you choose with us.
All the usual suspects
Benjamin Marks said:
Agreed. All the usual suspects have been mentioned. Throw Canon and Nikkor in the mix as well.
Have fun and share your photos from which ever lens you choose with us.
JohnM
Well-known
It seems like you have settled on those two lenses, so I won't go off in another direction on other makes and models.
I have the newest Summicron - it is a wonderful lens. I highly recommend it. I don't mind the collapsible hood or the lack of a focusing tab.
I've also seen prints from the Zeiss and have been very impressed.
In the end, the B&H price on the Zeiss is $800 and the price on the Leica is $1,600. Honestly, I would take the Zeiss at that price instead of opting for the Leica and the extra hours at work.
I have the newest Summicron - it is a wonderful lens. I highly recommend it. I don't mind the collapsible hood or the lack of a focusing tab.
I've also seen prints from the Zeiss and have been very impressed.
In the end, the B&H price on the Zeiss is $800 and the price on the Leica is $1,600. Honestly, I would take the Zeiss at that price instead of opting for the Leica and the extra hours at work.