The person that introduced me to 'Leica Photography' when I was 16 had a black paint M4 and a permanently attached 3rd version 50mm Summicron. Although he had other cameras and lenses this was his signature outfit and he just knew what it did and how to use it - watching him work was pure joy for me and taught me the optimal blend of photographer and simple effective equipment.
I started off with a DR Summicron myself because it came with the M3 I bought as my first Leica. But soon after got a 3rd version myself (lighter, and .7m close focus without the 'eyes') and its been with me for a few decades now, and although I've had many other 50mm lenses its the lens I will always have. I know what it does, and it still amazes me after all this time.
There is something to getting to know a lens and how it naturally works for some ones individual photography. The '69' version has everything I want and so for me is 'the best'. Small and light, nice longer but still quick focus throw, aperture clicks are smooth too and set well in place, 10 aperture blades (no compromise) round opening, I like the effective reversible clip on hood for quick storage or protection, rock solid construction, handles prefect in my hand and has never let me down in hard use. Uses my 39mm filters (an orange sometimes) the same as my 35mm Summicron and a nice swing-out polarizing lens hood 13352 which sit on the front when I'm in the tropics.
Images are very sharp even in the close range (can be used as an enlarging lens) with a flat field. Smooth focus transition (bokeh) which doesn't distract but is natural in look. High contrast but not over the top, great for B&W and color. f2 is fast enough for most.
It may not be a 'modern' lens, or even the 'best' optically by test chart standards, but in the right hands can be 'the best 50 ever' for its blend of qualities.
And nice photos Mauro!
