Rob-F
Likes Leicas
I think the 28mm FOV on the M8 does make for a natural FOV. But the 24mm isn't that far off from it; it's a 32mm equivalent, so still in the "natural" ball park. But I like wide, and lately I have thought that I ought to spend some time shooting with the 24mm, even though I can't see the bright line frame, I could guesstimate where the edges of the picture are. I can do it with the 24 on the M6, so why not with the M8?
mathomas
Well-known
The 25mm Zeiss is insanely good.
oldoc
oldoc
I have used the Zeiss 25, the Zeiss 28, the Canon 28, and the Elmarit 28. The Elmarit 28 was my favorite...until I got the Summicron 28. I don't think there is any comparison.
huntjump
Well-known
Very much agree. However, it isnt nearly as small as the cv 25/4 so keep that in mind. Definitely consider the Zeiss 25mm
noimmunity
scratch my niche
Size is another advantage of the 24 Elmar. Sean Reid calls it an exceptional lens. If you do a search, you may also find Tom A.'s high praise for it (and he has always loved the ZM 25).
With a little patience, used copies below US$2000 can be had. Another possibility is to get in line for an order from the UK for delivery to the US (thus saving 20% VAT while avoiding import duties). By luck my number in the waitlist came up just weeks before another insane Leica price increase, which combined with delivery outside the EU saved me a bundle on a new lens even in comparison with US prices (that are already lower than UK/EU prices).
The difference between a 24 and a 28 is considerable in terms of the lens' use. 24 has much greater DOF, which can be an advantage for fast use and composition.
For landscape, there is no question that the 24 Elmar is much better than the 28 Summicron, which cannot match the sharpness of the former at both near and far distances.
Lss
Well-known
Yes, the 24 Elmar is a beautiful lens and has incredible image quality. If I can find one at a good price, I will probably get it and pair with my 35/1.4 Nokton.