Leica Black Summilux M 35mm F/1.4 ASPH FLE 11663 6-Bit
This is a great lens. It produces beautiful images.
Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH FLE: A Detailed Description
The Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH FLE is a legendary lens that has captured the hearts of photographers for decades. Here's an in-depth look at this optical gem:
Overview:
- The Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH FLE is part of Leica's prestigious Summilux lineup, known for its exceptional optical performance.
- The "FLE" stands for "Floating Lens Elements," which is a key feature we'll explore shortly.
Optical Design:
- The lens comprises nine elements in five groups.
- It features one aspherical element, which helps correct aberrations and enhance sharpness.
- Leica's meticulous craftsmanship ensures precise alignment and minimal distortion.
Aperture and Bokeh:
- With a maximum aperture of f/1.4, this lens is a low-light champion. It allows for beautiful background separation and creamy bokeh.
- The eleven-blade diaphragm contributes to smooth, circular out-of-focus highlights.
Floating Lens Elements (FLE):
- The FLE design incorporates floating lens elements that adjust their position based on focusing distance.
- These elements optimize performance at both close and infinity focus distances.
- The improvements are most noticeable when shooting up close, where the lens maintains exceptional sharpness.
Build and Handling:
- The lens is compact and lightweight, making it a perfect companion for Leica M cameras.
- Its integrated pull-out lens hood provides protection and minimizes flare.
- The manual focus design encourages deliberate, thoughtful photography.
Performance:
- Wide open at f/1.4, the Summilux-M 35mm delivers remarkable sharpness and contrast.
- It's a lens that thrives in low-light conditions, making it ideal for street photography, environmental portraits, and documentary work.
- Even wide open, it retains enough depth of field to tell a compelling story without sacrificing background context.
Compatibility:
- The lens works seamlessly with all Leica M cameras, from the classic M3 to modern digital models like the M10 and M11.
- It's a testament to Leica's commitment to backward compatibility.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 58 mm
- Field of view: 62.5° (diagonally)
- Length: 46 mm
- Weight: 337g (without hood and caps)
- Filter Diameter: 46 mm
- Number of Aperture Blades: 11 (inwardly curved)
- Minimum Focus Distance: 1.3 feet (0.7 meters)
In summary, the Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH FLE is a masterpiece that combines optical excellence, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Whether you're capturing life's fleeting moments or creating art, this lens will serve you faithfully, delivering images that resonate with emotion and clarity.