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Leica releases Summilux-M 50mm F1.4 ASPH

Leica has announced an updated version of its Summilux-M 50mm F1.4 ASPH fast normal prime for its M lens mount.

The redesigned Summilux-M is designed to match the size of the 2022 version of the Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 ASPH. The lens’s minimum focus distance has been reduced from 70cm (27.6″) to 45cm (17.7″). It gains a metal hood that screws outwards, rather than the push/pull version on the older lens.

The new version of the 50mm F1.4 ASPH has eleven aperture blades instead of nine.

The updated Leica Summilux-M 50mm F1.4 ASPH will cost $4495 for the black version or $4795 in silver form.

Leica Camera announces the new Leica Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH.

Teaneck, NJ, April 13th 2023. Since its origins in 1849, Leica Camera AG has revolutionized the world of photography more than once. One of these innovations was the introduction of the Leica M series in 1954, which has been making history through M cameras and lenses up to the present day. One of these legendary M lenses has now been refined and presents itself with the latest high-end technology while keeping its compact and lightweight design: the Leica Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH. – for even more flexibility and freedom when taking pictures.

With its standard focal length of 50 mm, the new Summilux-M is suited for almost every photographic situation. Like all M lenses, it is characterized by an unmistakably high image quality. The new Summilux-M exploits the full performance potential of new camera sensors and offers exceptionally high-contrast and detailed results even in difficult light conditions. Moreover, 11 instead of 9 aperture blades ensure a visibly rounder bokeh.

The closest focusing distance has also been extended, from 70 cm to 45 cm. This was only made possible by the double cam gear specially developed by Leica engineers. As a result, the rotation angle of the distance ring could be greatly expanded compared to the previous model so that focusing has become even more precise over the entire setting range. At the same time, neither the frame size nor the sensitivity of the focus has been changed, which makes the lens particularly comfortable to handle even when focusing within the extended close-up range. Up to 70 centimeters, focusing is done, as usual, via the rangefinder of the digital and analogue M cameras. For focusing within the extended close-up range between 70 and 45 centimeters, it is necessary to use Live View on the screen, the Visoflex or the Leica FOTOS app.

Additionally, the Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH. has now been refined technically and optically. Directly integrated in the lens, the new round lens hood can be accessed at any time with only a flick of the wrist. The new Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH. is available in the silver or black anodized version.

The focal length classic is suited for all current and for all future M cameras. In combination with the Leica M-Adapter L, this new lens also enables photographing and filming with the Leica SL2 and the SL2-S. This is system compatibility “Made by Leica”.

The Leica Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH. is available globally at Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and authorized dealers starting on April 13th. The retail price of the M lens is $4,495 for the black version and $4,795 for the silver version.

Leica Summilux-M 50mm F1.4 ASPH (2023) specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 50 mm
Lens mount Leica M
Aperture
Maximum aperture F1.4
Minimum aperture F16
Aperture ring Yes
Number of diaphragm blades 11
Optics
Elements 8
Groups 5
Special elements / coatings 1 aspherical element
Focus
Minimum focus 0.45 m (17.72)
Maximum magnification 0.15×
Autofocus No
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale Yes
Physical
Weight 337 g (0.74 lb)
Diameter 59 mm (2.32)
Length 59 mm (2.32)
Filter thread 46 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Hood product code Built-in
Other
Notes Available in black or silver

Author:
This article comes from DP Review and can be read on the original site.

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