Leica has just announced a new version of the classic Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 lens that was first introduced in 1959. As the newest addition to the Leica Classic Line – a collection of M-system lenses that have been updated for modern photography – the new Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 stays true to the original lens.
The Summilux line is famous for its large apertures, and this new lens is no different, retaining the original model’s 12-bladed aperture diaphragm and seven lens elements in five groups. However, Leica has managed to reduce the close focusing distance down to 0.7m from 1m on the original, meaning photographers will be able to get closer to their subjects than before.
The optical calculations are based on the second Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 (II), which was manufactured from 1962 to 2004. Thanks to modern production techniques and special types of glass, Leica claims that the new lens can produce images that are sharper and have higher contrast than before.
Check out sample images from the lens below.
Made by hand from solid brass and fitted with a round lens hood, the Leica Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 is also the first Leica lens to come in the German company’s new boxes which don’t use any plastic.
THE LEICA SUMMILUX-M 50MM F/1.4 RETAILS AT S$5,900 AND IS NOW AVAILABLE AT OFFICIAL LEICA STORES, THE LEICA ONLINE STORE AND SPECIALIST RETAILERS.
