If you were to have only one Leica lens

[drec]

I had a 35/1.4 ASPH but just couldn't get into it... also owned a few Hexars over the years, trying to get into 35 like lots of Leica brethren... I have to admit, I don't like the focal length at all. I find I really like isolating my subject, and 50mm allows me a bit more distance to do it. If I need to get really close, I bust out a CV 25/4.

My vote is for a 50 Summicron for price, mostly, but I can't afford it. I'll be getting a Summitar, which is an oldie but goodie.

 

[Erik van Straten]

Elmar-M 50mm f/2.8, Leica M3, Tmax400 printed on Ilford MGIV fb.

Erik.

 

[matt335]

wonderful examples of your work and lenses Erik. I think we all agree that whatever lens you have in your kit you will invariably like it. What worries me is that I covet a new lens whenever I see one here or walk into my local leica dealer. but it's a healthy passion.

 

[Erik van Straten]

Thanks Matt! With every Leica-lens one can do things, but they are all different.

Erik.

 

[matt335]

Thanks Matt! With every Leica-lens one can do things, but they are all different.

Erik.

I agree Erik. Individual characteristics in every lens. This makes for an exciting journey.

 

[Erik van Straten]

Leica M3, Elmar 50mm f/2.8, Tmax400 printed n Ilford MGIV fb.

Erik.

 

[Erik van Straten]

Elmar-M 50mm f/2.8, Leica M3, Tmax400 printed on Ilford MGIV fb.

Erik.

 

[rogue_designer]

Probably a 35/1.4 - unless I could take a Nocti, sell it, and buy the other lenses I want instead.

 

[b&w]

if i could only have one lens for my m-system... it'd be the 35f1.4 asph.

if i could only have one leica lens (and other brand lenses to compement), then it would be noctilux asph.

 

[Turtle]

I'd have the most expensive and then sell it and buy a complete set of ZM or cheaper Leica lenses 😀

PS the 35 Summarit is fantastic... really fantastic. The more I use it the more I love the handling and rendering. This lens never makes anything look ugly. Bokeh thus far is always as good as it gets. Resolution is superb from wide open, very smooth contrast and the focus action, while light is like butter.

 

[gilpen123]

The 35 2.0 pre asph

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[oleg C]

I'm looking at LFI GALLERY M-ANALOG MASTERSHOTS section and it's dominated by Summicrons... Can anyone please explain to me, why Summiluxes are so popular on this thread?

 

[paulfish4570]

my favorite isn't listed, and i don't surrently have a leica body, but here goes: elmar collapsible 50/2.8. it is what i most fondly remember about my long-gone m3 double stroke ...

 

[Obrecht]

Brussel 2009, M2+50mm Rigid, Fomapan 100; Rodinal stand dev. 1+100.

 

[nrb]

40 Summicron for all the obvious reasons.

 

[pkreyenhop]

Where is the 75mm Lux in the list? This and your 35mm would make a great combo!
(And yes, I don't read complete threads...)

 

[Obrecht]

Gent 2009, M2+ 50mm Rigid, Fomapan 100, Rodinal 1+100 (stand dev.)

 

[dongor94]

35/1.4
Not too wide, not too tight; and super fast glass.
Cost is another issue though.

 

[ktmrider]

35 1.2

35 1.2

I just voted. If I could have only one lens for the M4, it would be the 35 f1.2. If it has to be a Leica lens, then the 50 f2 latest version.

 

[Boniface XIII]

f/1.4 is overrated. 'The shot you'l'd otherwise miss'. f/2 and a steady hand; and if the subject moves... well it would have moved anyway.

35/2 ASPH for me any day.

Just my 50 Kopeks.