Leica, the renowned German camera manufacturer, has announced a new generation of its Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH lens, a fast and compact wide-angle prime lens for its M-series rangefinder cameras. The new lens offers improved technical features that make it compatible with the latest sensor technology and future camera generations. It also features an extended close-up range and an integrated lens hood for convenience and versatility.
New design and features for the Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH lens
The new Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH lens is an update to the previous version with the same name, which was launched in 2000. The new lens has a redesigned body and an integrated lens hood that can be easily screwed in or unscrewed with a simple hand movement. The lens hood protects the front element from flare and dust, and also adds to the sleek and elegant appearance of the lens.
The new lens also boasts improved optical performance and compatibility with the latest sensor technology. The lens consists of nine elements in six groups, including two aspherical elements that reduce distortion and chromatic aberration. The lens delivers sharp and contrasty images even at the maximum aperture of f/2, which is ideal for low-light situations and shallow depth of field effects.
The new lens also offers an extended close-up range that allows users to focus as close as 40 centimeters (15.75 inches), compared to the previous minimum distance of 70 centimeters (27.6 inches). This opens up new possibilities for creative photography with a wide-angle perspective. The close-up range can be precisely focused via live view on the screen, the Visoflex 2 viewfinder, or the Leica Fotos app. The rangefinder of the M-series cameras can still be used to focus up to 70 centimeters.
Ideal for street and documentary photography
The new Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH lens is designed for street and documentary photography, as well as for everyday use. The 28mm focal length provides a natural and immersive view of the scene, capturing the atmosphere and details of the surroundings. The fast aperture of f/2 enables users to shoot in challenging lighting conditions and isolate subjects from the background. The compact size and weight of the lens make it easy to carry around and handle.
The new lens is compatible with all digital and analog M-series cameras, including the recently announced Leica M11-P, which features a high-resolution 64-megapixel sensor and a touch-sensitive screen. The new lens can also be used with other L-mount cameras, such as the Leica SL2-S or the Panasonic Lumix S5, with an adapter.
The new Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH lens will be available globally at all Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store, and authorized dealers starting November 30, 2023. The retail price will be $5,295.
