In the annals of photographic history, few brands can rival the legacy that Leica has crafted. Their latest marvel, the 28mm Summicron-M lens, stands as a testament to this storied heritage and promises to reshape the benchmarks of optical precision.
Diving Deep into the 28mm Summicron-M
The 28mm focal length isn’t a newcomer in the photographic arena. It’s a lens length that countless photographers, from novices to professionals, have come to embrace. With its predominant presence in smartphones, and even iconic devices like the iPhone, 28mm has become synonymous with modern-day photography.
But Leica’s 28mm f/2 Summicron-M is not just another 28mm lens. Its F2.0 aperture guarantees unparalleled sharpness with every click. Additionally, its 40cm close focusing distance expands its range, offering users an enhanced depth in their photographs.
I love the 28mm focal length so much I have the 28mm Summilux and it is my most used lens.
Tailored for Journalists: A Wide-Angle Marvel
Designed with journalists in mind, Leica’s 28mm Summicron-M is a wide-angle masterpiece. For those who prioritize speed and are willing to find a middle ground between size, weight, and price, this lens offers a one-stop advantage in speed over its sibling, the 28mm f/2.8 ASPH (Elmarit).
Leica’s odyssey spanning over 150 years is nothing short of legendary. Every piece, meticulously handcrafted in the revered Leica Manufactory, is an embodiment of history and human ingenuity. Their relentless drive to push the boundaries of what’s technically possible shines brightly in the Summicron-M 28 f/2 ASPH., symbolizing Leica’s unwavering commitment to innovation.
A Closer Look at the Technical Brilliance
This latest M-Lens iteration is brimming with features, catering to both current and prospective camera generations. Its versatility is its hallmark, presenting a wide-angle capability coupled with a newly extended close focusing distance, stretching from 70cm to 40cm.
Marrying Aesthetics with Practicality
Leica’s 28mm Summicron-M lens exudes elegance without compromising on utility. Its compactness, a characteristic feature of M-Lenses, makes it a standout. The revamped lens hood, effortlessly blending style with functionality, is an ode to Leica’s design philosophy.
Internally, the lens is an ensemble of nine lenses, arranged meticulously into six groups. This design promises images bursting with detail and contrast. Every twist of its smoothly adjustable focus ring underscores the unparalleled craftsmanship that Leica is celebrated for.
From November 30, 2023, photography aficionados can procure the Summicron-M 28 f/2 ASPH. It will be available globally with a price tag of $5,295 for the US audience.
Understanding the Summicron Legacy
The Summicron series, often regarded as Leica’s magnum opus, has evolved since its inception in 1953. With a commendable f/2 speed, the Summicron merges unmatched optical performance with a sleek design. Interestingly, 28mm was one of the last focal lengths that Leica incorporated into the Summicron lineup, a decision that underscores their methodical approach to lens design.
Leica’s 28mm Summicron-M lens isn’t merely a product—it’s a legacy, an embodiment of Leica’s rich past and their ambitious vision for the future. For the global community of photographers, this lens could very well be a transformative tool, redefining photographic expression in the years to come.