Versions of Nokton 35 f 1.2

[presspass]

Has anyone done a comparison of the two versions of the CV 35mm f 1.2 lens? I understand the size difference, etc., but do they have a different signature? Thanks,

 

[huntjump]

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=110407

some interesting things to read here: http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=110011

 

[Tom A]

I have both. I find that the vII is marginally sharper in the center - but that could also be a matter of ergonomics. The vII is a bit easier to hold and focus and that can improve quality - particularly in low light and slow speeds.
I took it along to Japan last month as my primary lens on a MP 0.58. Worked very well and I could not blame the lens for any missed or screwed up shots!
They are both "cutting edge" lenses and if you have a vI I dont think the improvement in image quality is such that it would be worthwhile "swapping" them.

 

[Tom A]

This is with the third version of the 35f1.2. This one is in Nikon Rf mount. Only a handful were made. It is the optical formula of the v1. The longer "throw" on the focus with a Nikon makes it a bit easier to pinpoint focus.
This is at 1/8s and f1.2 with 100 iso film - slow panning shot as the Red Bull team moved their tent to the right spot for the Soap Box Derby race down West 4th Avenue.

 

[Tom A]

These are the three version of the Nokton 35f1.2. The S-mount version was a small run, probably less than 10 all in all that Cosina made. None were sold, but given away. External mount - as it would have been too heavy for an internal mount. Fastest 35 ever made for a Nikon Rf.
The differences between them is not huge. The vII is a bit sharper at f1,2 in the center, but they are all very good.

 

[sleepyhead]

Hello, besides the different lens shades, is there a way to tell the two Leica M versions (Mk I and Mk II) apart?

Do they both focus down to around 0.5 meters?

THANKS

 

[TKH]

No. Version I is focusing down to 0.7 meters.
I love the lens.



Go for it, if you can.



Rainer

 

[sleepyhead]

Thanks for the information Rainer. I haev the opportunity to buy a version II locally, but am sitting on the fence regarding the size. I briefly owned a version I several years ago, but sold it for that reason.
The rendering of this lens is very very special however. So I'm tempted again...

 

[TKH]

Ofcourse is the lens a big one in RF world.
But in the DSLR world its a normal one.