Helen,
Hope that you're feeling better & that the stitch removal wasn't too painful!
You're sure right about the moula! The difference between the F1.4 ASPH that I own and this new one is just noticeable in the near range due to the floating element/group. From average distances to infinity you'd be hard pressed to notice any differences. Bought mine as my very 1st piece of Leica gear--didn't even own a body yet! Got the M6TTL a week or two later and never looked back! But at $1,350.00 in mint used condition I couldn't pass it up! That was way back in the late 90's. Mine is titanium, built like a tank!