Leica Summicron 2/35 V3
This is a six element version (3) with 10 blades, produced 1971 - 1979. Still with the same number of glass elements than Version 2, brought some improvement in overall contrast.
All pictures taken with Leica M2 and M6 with Summicron 2/35 V3. Black and White film developed in Xtol. Scanned by meinfilmlab on Fuji Frontier.
The version 3 Summicron draws very nice, natural colors and a consistent results. I have been never disappointed. It is not as clinical as version 4 "King of Bokeh" or razor sharp as the ASPH version.
My version been sharp at f2, not soft at all, still contrasty. They can vary from version to version, mine been in pristine condition from a collection.
In terms of black and white, I find the six elements Summicron rather "boring", like the Summicron C-40, in comparison to the results of my Summaron. But of course, if you prefer a 70s 80s look, than that is what you will get.
I did not have too many problems with flair, as I am used to pay attention to the angle of light coming into the lens. When needed I sometimes covered the lens with my hand to give an additional shade.
Eight, seven or six elements Summicron 35? Well, my answer is simple: Unless you don't need f2, get a Summaron 2.8/35 instead. It is better especially in close to medium distances and for portraits. It has more character than the Summicron and from f 5.6 it is sharp from corner to corner. My Summaron is as sharp as the six elements Summicron at f 2.8. But at the end, it is a question of how you would like to draw with your brush. They are all superb.
F2 in low artificial light, this lens renders nice tones. That is a huge improvement if you shoot that way.
You can find some more black and white pictures (Neopan 400) here.
Thanks for stopping by and happy shooting!
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Leica Summicron 2/50 Rigid Chrome
Leica manufactured the Type 2 Summicron in two versions - the regular one as well as closed focus version (or dual range), which had an identical optical formula.
