For those who’re inquisitive about lenses that seize classic allure with out sacrificing fashionable practicality, the reissue of the Leica Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 would possibly catch your eye. It blends parts from many years of Leica historical past into one lens, giving your photos a singular character and really feel.
Coming to you from Alex Barrera, this informative video walks by Barrera’s expertise after utilizing the 2025 reissue of the Leica Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 for about two and a half months. Barrera enjoys lenses that supply imperfections—qualities which may appear to be flaws to others however give your photos a definite really feel. The Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 reissue takes inspiration from three previous variations, combining the traditional design of the unique 1959 mannequin with the optical construction of the 1961 replace and the close-focus skill launched in 1995. What stands out instantly is the craftsmanship: a brass construct that, at 417 grams, makes it heavier even than Leica’s legendary Noctilux. Barrera factors out this heft as both a professional or a con, relying in your preferences.
Optically, Barrera emphasizes that regardless of anticipating softness typical of classic lenses, he was pleasantly shocked by the sharpness broad open at f/1.4. It is sharper than many would anticipate from a design originating in 1961, particularly when paired with high-resolution sensors. Large open, it maintains the dreamy glow classic lenses are recognized for, complemented by easy, creamy bokeh, and distinct purple fringing—traditional Leica traits you would possibly both admire or keep away from relying in your aesthetic. But, stopped down barely, Barrera describes it as reworking into one thing unexpectedly fashionable and crisp.
Key Specs
Focal Size: 50mm
Most Aperture: f/1.4
Lens Mount: Leica M
Angle of View: 45°
Minimal Focus Distance: 27.6 inches (70 cm)
Optical Design: 7 Parts in 5 Teams
Aperture Blades: 12
Handbook Focus Solely
Filter Dimension: 46 mm
Dimensions: 2.3 x 1.8 inches
Weight: 14.7 oz (417 g)
In sensible use, Barrera additionally highlights the lengthy focus throw as a characteristic, not a flaw. This design determination permits for extra exact handbook focusing, particularly helpful at 50mm, the place nailing focus could be trickier. He acknowledges this isn’t for everybody, significantly in case you desire fast, responsive focusing rings, however for portrait work and accuracy-driven pictures, this might be precisely what you want. The absence of a focusing tab can be a deliberate design alternative, interesting in case you get pleasure from a smoother, uninterrupted focusing expertise.
One consideration Barrera factors out is that because of its prolonged manufacturing run (1959-2005), authentic used variations of the Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 are nonetheless available. These classic lenses are lighter and considerably cheaper than the brass reissue, although they arrive with out the safety of a guaranty. Try the video above for the total rundown from Barrera.
