Leica Camera has released Noctilux-M 50 f/1.2 ASPH, a modern version of the iconic 1966 lens, which was the first in the world to feature aspherical elements.
When Noctilux 50 f/1.2 was first launched in 1966, only 1,757 lenses were produced at the time which put this black-finish lens on the collector's wish list in today's market; just prior to the release, Leica produced around five silver-finish prototypes which are now extremely sought after and equally highly-priced.
The recent modern release of this lens still contains the distinctive visual characteristics that the original lens was known for. Although a historical revival of an iconic lens, Noctilux-M 50 f/1.2 ASPH has been designed with today's fast-paced photography and photographer's needs in mind, delivering sharp images and also being the most compact and lightweight Noctilux. Images captured with the lens produce soft, dreamlike look when used wide open, however, it is also built as a general use lens for everyday shooting situations.
The lens will come in a choice of two colors, black anodized with an aluminum lens barrel and silver chrome with a brass lens barrel. The black version of the lens comes in a packaging that has been inspired by the original box and with the same lens container that came with the original Noctilux 50 f/1.2. The silver chrome lens will be limited to 100 units and is further distinguished with a front-ring engraving that reads LEITZ WETZLAR, instead of LEICA, and also comes with a packaging that is even closer to the original.
The black version of the lens is priced at $7,695 while the limited edition silver chrome lens is priced at $16,395.
Why was I suprised at the price?!
And not being cynical, how are these that much better than say the Voigtlander Nokton's f0.95 series of lens's? Comparing approx $1k to $7k?
I suppose its the name recognition and the marketing game at it best, but WOW!
It's similar to apple computers. There may be some good electronics in some of them, but most of the price is due to the experience of using that computer.
Is it worth it? To each their own. I don't even buy a Windows license nor Adobe stuff. I do pay for certain very useful and complex software though.
However, I can't be the only one seeing that most manufacturers are opting for reducing their cheaper (mass-market) camera gear, leaning towards more expensive (better margin) cameras with less market.
Soon Leica gear may not seem to be that expensive in comparison.
And the new TTartisan 50 F0.95 is just USD720. Image quality is probably 90% of the Leica. If you concern about the price then Leica is not for your. Leica is never about value for money.
According to wikipedia, "The world's first commercial, mass-produced aspheric lens element was manufactured by Elgeet for use in the Golden Navitar 12 mm f/1.2 normal lens for use on 16 mm movie cameras in 1956.". Surprise ;-)
Actually not even Leica claims that. They claim it's the first one to feature two of them (not one), and on the surface. Not sure if there were others that featured multiple internal asph lenses. Quoting them... "Also remarkable was the fact that it was the first ever lens produced in series to feature two aspherical lens surfaces."
More money than brains.
Who really cares for an overpriced marginal at best lens?