Leica 50mm Summilux 1.4 ASPH question

[clicker]

I recently purchased a Summilux 50mm asph 1.4 lens. I have noticed an ever so slight noise when I first turn the focusing tab. The sound stops once the tab engages. The lens focuses correctly albeit this strange sound
(almost a faint clunk.) Am I just being obsessive or is this lens in need of an internal adjustment. My 35mm summicron asph does not make this sound however my Zeiss 28mm does to some degree.

 

[sepiareverb]

I've not heard this on mine.

 

[J J Kapsberger]

What do you mean by the tab engaging?

 

[clicker]

What I mean is when I first move the tab I notice a ever so slight play in the tab rotation along with a very faint sound.

 

[thomasw_]

Like Bob, I have not heard this on mine. Nor do I have the play you describe.

 

[peter_n]

Is this tab play/sound at closest focus or infinity, or elsewhere in the distance scale?

Is the lens used or new?

 

[Tom A]

Mine is a very early 50f1.4 Asph and it does have a slight "clunk" when you go to extreme close. It is supposedly the "floating" element cam that engages. Works fine though and the sound and feel is much less after extensive use.

 

[35mmdelux]

No such sound on my new 50 Summilux asp.

 

[Ken Tanaka]

Tom's observation must be the answer. My 50 Lux is relatively new (purchased new around 2007) and, like others report, has absolutely no play, sound, or tactile feeling in the focusing ring.

 

[Tom A]

I should add that my 75f2 also had a similar "feel" to it - but, again, after using it - it has gone away. I suspect that it is part of the action "seating" itself and wearing in.
Both of these lenses are among the best performers you can find and the small "bump" is a low price to pay for what they deliver.

 

[sepiareverb]

I did have a noticeable 'drag' as the floating element engaged, but this has completely disappeared. I'm waiting to see if it returns as the temperature drops here in Vermont and the lubricant thickens. It will be below freezing in the mornings in a few weeks here.

 

[notraces]

mine is very loose and smooth -- and makes nice noises switching apertures -- not really clunky -- just clicks -- i wouldn't worry about it -- shoot the dang thing -- and have fun...

 

[axiom]

What does the number "15" beside this thread mean?

 

[johnny.moped]

I recently purchased a Summilux 50mm asph 1.4 lens. I have noticed an ever so slight noise when I first turn the focusing tab. The sound stops once the tab engages. The lens focuses correctly albeit this strange sound
(almost a faint clunk.) Am I just being obsessive or is this lens in need of an internal adjustment. My 35mm summicron asph does not make this sound however my Zeiss 28mm does to some degree.

ignore the sound. i bought one half a year ago and the first weeks i could hear a scratching-sound sometimes when focussing.
went away by using it a bit.
i think it's the lube that has to get to everywhere at the beginning.

 

[peter_n]

it does have a slight "clunk" when you go to extreme close. It is supposedly the "floating" element cam that engages

The reason why I asked above where this occurs on the distance scale. I have the LHSA version and haven't used it for a few months and it has gone a bit stiff. It needs exercise... 🙂