Hello friends! Today, I’m super excited to talk to you about something cool — the Leica R 35mm Summicron, specifically the Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 and V2. If you’re into photography or just curious about cameras and lenses, this comparison between two iconic lenses will be super interesting. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just someone who loves capturing beautiful moments, these lenses have some amazing qualities to offer.
Now, let’s dive into the world of these two fantastic lenses and see which one stands out, and what makes them different!
Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 and V2
So, let’s start by giving you a little background. Leica is a German company known for making top-of-the-line cameras and lenses. They’ve been around for a long time and their products are often considered the best in the world! Leica lenses are used by both professional photographers and enthusiasts who want to create art with their photos.
Now, the Leica R 35mm Summicron is a wide-angle lens with a focal length of 35mm, which makes it a great all-around lens. You can use it for landscapes, street photography, portraits, and more! But here’s where it gets interesting — there are two main versions of this lens: Version 1 (V1) and Version 2 (V2). Both of these lenses are great, but they have some differences that could affect which one is better for you.
Build and Design: Classic Feel vs. Modern Touch
The Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 was released in the early 1970s, so it has that vintage, old-school vibe. If you love the feeling of using a classic piece of photography gear, this one is perfect for you! The build quality is excellent because Leica doesn’t cut corners. It’s made out of high-quality metal, so it’s solid, and it has a hefty weight that makes it feel durable and reliable in your hands.
On the other hand, Leica R 35mm Summicron V2, which came out later in the 1980s, is slightly more refined in terms of design. It’s lighter and more compact, which can be great if you’re looking for a lens that’s easier to carry around for longer periods of time. V2 still has that awesome Leica build quality, but it’s more modern and sleek compared to the V1.
Key Differences in Design:
| Feature | Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 | Leica R 35mm Summicron V2 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 1970s | 1980s |
| Build Material | Full Metal, Heavy | Metal, Lighter |
| Weight | Heavier (Approx. 500g) | Lighter (Approx. 400g) |
| Design Style | Classic, Vintage | Modern, Compact |
If you want that classic Leica feeling in your hand, the V1 might be for you. But if you want something a little more lightweight and modern, the V2 could be the better choice.
Optical Performance: Which One is Sharper?
Here’s where things get exciting! Both the Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 and V2 are known for their amazing optical performance, but there are some differences you should know about.
Leica R 35mm Summicron V1: The V1 is known for producing images with a lot of character. Some people say the images have a slightly “dreamy” quality because the lens softens the edges just a little bit, especially when you’re shooting wide open at f/2. This makes it great for portraits or artistic photography. However, some photographers may find the softness a little distracting if they’re looking for super-sharp results.
Leica R 35mm Summicron V2: The V2, on the other hand, is known for being much sharper, especially in the corners. Leica made some changes to the optical formula to improve sharpness and contrast, and you can definitely see it! The V2 is great if you want tack-sharp images from edge to edge, which can be especially helpful for landscapes or architectural photography where you want a lot of detail.
Quick Comparison of Sharpness:
| Feature | Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 | Leica R 35mm Summicron V2 |
|---|---|---|
| Center Sharpness | Very Good | Excellent |
| Corner Sharpness | Softer, especially wide open | Sharper, even at f/2 |
| Contrast | Slightly lower | Higher contrast, more vibrant |
| Bokeh | Dreamy, more character | Smoother but less character |
So, if sharpness is your top priority, you might lean towards the V2. But if you like that soft, artistic look, V1 is hard to beat!
Leica R 35 Summicron V1 vs V2: Which One Should You Choose?
This is probably the most important question you’re asking right now — which one is right for YOU? Let’s break it down so it’s super clear!
If you’re someone who loves vintage gear and doesn’t mind a bit of softness in your images, then the Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 might be perfect. This lens has a lot of character, which is why many photographers adore it! The V1 is great for creating artistic, dreamy photos that have a nostalgic feel.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for super sharp images and a more modern design, the Leica R 35mm Summicron V2 could be the better option. The V2 delivers more precision, especially in the corners of your images, which is awesome if you want to capture lots of fine details. Plus, it’s lighter and easier to handle, which is a bonus if you’re shooting for long hours.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Choose Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 if you:
- Love vintage gear and design.
- Don’t mind a bit of softness for a more artistic look.
- Enjoy a heavier, classic feel in your hands.
- Choose Leica R 35mm Summicron V2 if you:
- Want sharper, more detailed images.
- Prefer a lighter, more modern lens.
- Need higher contrast and vibrant images.
Ultimately, both lenses are fantastic. It just depends on your personal style and what kind of photos you want to create!
Price and Availability: A Key Factor to Consider
When it comes to price, both lenses are considered high-end and can be expensive, but there are some differences here too.
Since the Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 is an older, vintage lens, it can sometimes be harder to find. However, when you do find one, they can be a bit more affordable than the V2, especially if they’ve been used a lot. But keep in mind that because they’re older, you might have to spend some money on maintenance, like cleaning the glass or fixing any mechanical issues.
The Leica R 35mm Summicron V2, being newer and in higher demand due to its sharpness, tends to be pricier. But, since it’s more modern, you’re less likely to run into any issues with the lens, and it might be easier to find in better condition.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Lens | Price Range | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Leica R 35mm V1 | More affordable, around $1,500 to $2,000 | Harder to find, especially in mint condition |
| Leica R 35mm V2 | More expensive, around $2,500 to $3,500 | Easier to find in good condition |
So, price can be a big factor. If you’re on a tighter budget, the V1 might be the way to go. But if you’re willing to spend a little more for sharper images and better condition, the V2 is worth the investment!
Both the Leica R 35mm Summicron V1 and V2 are incredible lenses, each with their own unique qualities. Whether you prefer the classic, artistic feel of the V1 or the sharp, modern precision of the V2, you really can’t go wrong with either choice.
At the end of the day, the best lens for you depends on your personal preferences, your photography style, and your budget. No matter which version you pick, both are legendary lenses that will help you create stunning, timeless photos.
So, which one do you think fits your style more? The dreamy and vintage V1 or the sharp and modern V2? Let me know what you think, and happy shooting!