Making 2 lenses into 1...

[JayC]

Let me preface by stating that I really know nothing of the different image characteristics of different leica lenses.

Currently I own 3 50mm lenses fo my M6 - an f1.5 Nokton, an f2 Summicron (3rd version I think - removeable hood), and an Industar 61.

Obviously the Industar is just for giggles, but if I wanted to get one lens to replace the Nokton and the Summicron - what should I get? Or is it best to keep them both because they offer such varying images? (I don't know this fist hand - just what I've read).

Is there a lens that gives a "compromise" bewtween the speed of one, and the "leicaness" or "sharpness" of the other? If I must keep both, fine. I just would like to know options and why. Thanks so much.

Jay

 

[ferider]

Hi Jay,

I'm not sure if you will see much difference between the Nokton and the Summicron -
except for the Nokton having higher resolution (the Nokton will
be "sharper") and being faster ... But you might like owning both
due to the different sizes and the shorter min. distance of the Summicron.

You might look for something completely different, with clearly
different signature, like a Sonnar or Nikkor.

Best,

Roland.

 

[waileong]

Really? Where does it state the Nokton has higher resolution?

 

[ferider]

Really? Where does it state the Nokton has higher resolution?

Read your best friend Puts. 'nough said. 🙂

 

[shenkerian]

Disregarding cost, I'd think the obvious answer would be the 50 Summilux ASPH.

 

[mfogiel]

I'd suggest keeping the Nokton. If you want a second 50mm, it could either be a portrait lens ( C Sonnar or Nikkor, as pointed above) or a compact "old style" Leica lens like an Elmarit collapsible.

 

[Ash]

Keep what you got. Put two of the lenses away somewhere and use one Leica lens solidly for a few rolls. Then swap it for the other Leica lens. Use that solidly for a few rolls. If you can't choose between them at the end then keep both. If you have a favourite, keep that and think about selling the other.

Considering the cost to replace, you may as well keep both Leica lenses just in case you lose or damage one of them - good to have a backup.

 

[JayC]

Yeah, I like the suggestion of using one only for a whilem, then the other. It even got me to thinking that I should try to only use one of my lenses on any given roll of film. That way I wouldn't have to keep as many notes as to what frame was taken with which lens. One roll - one lens.

PS: I have zero pics on RFF, but I am really trying to get organized so that I can put some up. I am envious of all of you that keep posting pictures. Thanks for continued inspiration.