The fascination with Leica Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4

Lots have been said about this lens from Leica. Many aspire to own one for the sharp image and creamy bokeh that it produces.


This image is shot with the earliest version, commonly known as Version 1. This is also available in screw mount, albeit in very limited numbers.


This image is shot with the third version, also commonly known as the "pre-ASPH" version.

Both images taken with Epson R-D1 digital rangefinder camera.

However, are there no lenses that matches up in performance? Actually, if you look around there are plenty of options available, and often at much cheaper price points too. Here are some common alternatives:

Modern
Zeiss Sonnar 50mm f/1.5
Voigtlander Nokton 50mm f/1.5 LTM

Vintage
Canon 50mm f/1.4 LTM

To be honest, how many can differentiate the prints from any of these lenses or those from the various Summilux?

However, in terms of construction and handling, there is of course no doubt that Leica lenses are superbly finished and feels worthy of it's price when held in your hand. The rest don't even come close.

Cheers,