Looking for opinions on Hexanon M 50mm F1.2

[IEDEI]

So over the years I’ve continued to be fascinated by the Hexanon M 50mm F1.2 even though by all accounts I’ve seen and read the lens is fast but not considered to be all that special. I have a pre-ASPH Summilux 50mm and also have a 50mm Pre-Minolta Super Rokkor 50mm F1.8 which I actually prefer over the Summilux.

Is there anyone here who has owned the Hexanon 50mm F1.2? Even better yet if long term? I usually don’t sell lenses once I own them so am looking to understand where this lens fits better. The prices have gone up in recent years and I’m not really sure why.

Is this more comparable to a Summilux? Or is it good enough that it approaches older Noctilux quality? My concern is that it’s just an overpriced Japanese lens that doesn’t have the quality to match. I’ve never actually used one.

Many thanks!

 

[Larry H-L]

Maybe this older thread may help you, comparing Konica 50 & 60 f1.2 versions:
https://rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=54053&highlight=60mm+hexanon

 

[IEDEI]

Maybe this older thread may help you, comparing Konica 50 & 60 f1.2 versions:
https://rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=54053&highlight=60mm+hexanon

thanks a pretty nice comparison. I think i saw that a few years ago but nice to see it again.

really not a lot of info on these lenses out there...

 

[jordan.dickinson]

I've owned it twice and sold it twice. The build quality is great, like the other Hexanon-M lenses, but I just couldn't get along with it for some reason and the titanium finish, though pretty, looks kind of weird attached to both chrome and black Leica bodies. This is just aesthetics, but still, it's kind of an odd color combination. The size is pretty nice, about the same as the old Canon 50mm f1.2 ltm, but more robust than the Canon. Other than that, the images are sharp and contrasty, but seem to be missing the special look of a Noctilux or Summilux. Of course, these are just my opinions, but I've owned a ton of lenses over the years including Noctilux/Summilux 50mms, and the Hexanon-M 50mm f1.2 just never really clicked with me. I sold the Noctilux as well after realizing that I'm just not into shooting razor thin depth of field despite the amazing character of that lens.



Here are some of the very few images I have, but I'm sure you've probably seen a few if looking into this lens...


Leica M9


abby-stairs

by Jordan Dickinson, on Flickr



kodi-knows

by Jordan Dickinson, on Flickr


And on film - Leica MP + Kodak 3200 TMZ


walnut room

by Jordan Dickinson, on Flickr