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.