New Voigtlanders vs LTM 1999/2000 Voigtlanders

I have a 28/1.9. It doesn't have haze. I like its image quality quite a bit. Compared to modern Voigtlander lenses, the build quality is fine, but slightly more work-in-progress (the aperture detents feel too stiff and there is play in the guides). Its look is more 'medium contrast' with some SA wide-open...which isn't a bad thing. Distortion is low. Bokeh is very pleasant.

Jenny by Jim Fischer, on Flickr

House Plant by Jim Fischer, on Flickr

Jenny by Jim Fischer, on Flickr

That being said, modern Voigtlander lenses just keep getting better and better. Build quality is exceptional. There is now a consistent focus on delivering high-performing lenses at a reasonable size (there are trade-offs that come with that as well). I assume that they worked out whatever issues they were having with balsam haze and chalk that up to unfortunate growing pains.
 
Cosina did not start with the Voigtlander line, introduced around the Millennium.
By then they were experienced making cameras and lenses for several decades.

In my experience lens shopping all older lenses may have some haze.
Specific models of various manufacturers may be more prone than others.
Sometimes haze can be removed easily by a technician; sometimes not.

Chris
 
Last edited:
Even though 'anecdote' is not 'data', my Nokton 1.1/50, 1.2/35, Super-Wide Heliar 4.5/15, and Nokton 1.4/40 (or is a newer lens) do not have haze. And I live a good part of the year in Saigon where humidity levels are always high. In comparison, the sensor in my Leica M-E was fine while I lived in Central Europe but went on the blink after six months in Saigon.
 
Back
Top Bottom