Leica has unveiled a new L mount zoom lens: the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH.
Featuring a metal body with a dust- and moisture-resistant design for weather-sealing, Leica’s new 24-70mm lens is substantial but perhaps smaller and lighter than you might think, thanks to the omission of optical image stabilization. Given that this has been designed with the SL2 and the SL2-S in mind, Leica opted to save weight by instead relying the stabilization inside of their two latest bodies.
Weighing 1.9 lbs (856 g), it is 3.5 inches (88 mm) in diameter, 4.8 inches (123 mm) in length, has 19 elements in 15 groups, including three aspherical elements, and an 82mm front filter thread. Leica claims that this lens will deliver sharp, aberration-free images throughout its focal range.
Other features include 11 aperture blades and a minimum focusing distance of 7.1 inches (18 cm).
The lens is available to preorder today for $2,795 ,and Leica is offering bundles with the SL2 — $8,795 — and SL2-S — $7,195 — that offer savings of almost $600. Those looking to save even more money might wish to check out the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art for Leica L, which shares a surprising number of specifications: 19 elements in 15 groups, 11 aperture blades, an 82 mm filter thread, almost identical dimensions, and the same minimum focusing distance. It's currently available for $1,059.
Will you be placing an order? Let us know in the comments below.
The Leica looks identical to the Sigma, but oddly has an extra element. Did they just fit a plain piece of glass in there somewhere to differentiate it from the Sigma!