How Good Is a $5,000 35mm Lens?

For some people, the thought of spending over $5,000 on a 35mm lens, let alone one without autofocus, is an absolutely absurd proposition. On the other hand, Leica users often swear by the company's optics. Costing over $5,000, the Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. promises amazing optical performance. Can it live up to that promise? This excellent first look video takes a look at what you can expect. 

Coming to you from Matt Day, this great video review takes a first look at the Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. lens. Certainly, the 35mm f/1.4 is one of the most expensive 35mm lenses out there, but with it, you get the promise of superlative image quality and Leica's famous look. This particular lens comes with a nice range of features, including:

  • 9 elements in 5 groups
  • 11 diaphragm blades for particularly smooth bokeh
  • Newly engineered double cam unit for reduced minimum focusing distance of 1.3 feet
  • One aspherical elements for reduced distortion and increased sharpness
  • Floating elements system for high image quality throughout focus range
  • Pull-out lens hood

No doubt, the Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 is stratospherically price and not for everyone, but it is interesting to see the images it produces. Check out the video above for Day's thoughts on the lens. 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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