Thoughts on 35mm Summicron III?

[anoldsock]

I've been itching to getting my hands on a 35mm Summicron, but decided that IV is prolly over my budget and thinking about getting the III version. Does anyone have any thoughts of the two lens or has done a comparison. I tried doing a search, but couldn't find as much info as I wanted.

In terms of picture and build quality, can someone provide some comments of it as compared to the IV gen?

Also, we can leave out any bokeh talk...they don't call the IV gen The King of Bokeh for nothing.

Thanks in advance!

 

[elude]

Both version are outstanding. However don't let the reputation fool you; Both bokeh are enjoyable. The vignetting is not excessive at F2 for both of the versions. Still, I prefer version IV for its construction. But my favorite 35 is the 2,8 Summaron, sorry ! Buy the cheapest unless you can have IV for a good price.

 

[mknawabi]

The III is amazing. check http://flickr.com/photos/helloyama/ for some samples i've been taking this month

 

[maddoc]

The III is amazing. check http://flickr.com/photos/helloyama/ for some samples i've been taking this month

I just had a look, very good start with your M6TTL/ Summicron 35/2.0 III ! Keep posting !!

 

[mr_phillip]

The V3 is a superb lens, and beautifully made. There's really very little between them optically but I prefer the size and handling of the V3.

 

[Avotius]

in this very forum you will find a very long write up by me about the third summicron, its hard to miss.

 

[35mmdelux]

The IV isn't as amazing as people would lead you to believe.

If you can afford the III then go for it - i don't think anyone is going to be able to tell the difference.

agreed. when all the smoke and emotion clears, the VIII & IV are virtually compatible.

 

[findwolfhard]

Which one is the 6 element design?
Thanks Wolfhard

 

[mr_phillip]

The v2 and v3 'crons were both six element designs (optically identical but in different mounts). The v4 has seven elements, while the original v1 had eight.

 

[Rob-F]

The v2 and v3 'crons were both six element designs (optically identical but in different mounts). The v4 has seven elements, while the original v1 had eight.

I don't agree that they are optically identical. They are both six-element lenses, yes. The formulas are similar, yes--too similar to distinguish the difference in the schematic drawings. But the VIII has slightly larger diameter elements than the VII has. This was done to reduce vignetting, as well as to reduce edge reflections.

Edit: P.S. I agree the 2.8 Summaron is a fine lens! I'd say, though, that either the VII or VIII, stopped down to 2.8 or beyond, will deliver equal results.

 

[35mmdelux]

I've owned three V3s and two V4s. while I'm no expert, i did not notice diff in rendition to speak of.