Leica Unveils New Summaron-M 28mm f/5.6, the Rebirth of a Classic Lens
Leica today announced its new Summaron-M 28mm f/5.6 lens. It’s a classic lens that is being reborn to deliver wide-angle shots in reportage photography with an ultra-compact lens. It’s “the modern renaissance of a classic Leica lens,” the company says.
The Summaron-M 28mm f/5.6 was originally introduced as a screw mount lens back in 1955 and was manufactured until 1963. That original lens continues to be one of the most compact wide-angle lenses in Leica’s M lens stable.
Leica’s new Summaron-M 28mm f/5.6 has an optical design (6 elements in 4 groups) and mechanical construction that are identical to its predecessor, so it brings the classic “analog look” to the world of digital Leica M photography.
“The historic optical design of the original lens has remained completely unchanged,” Leica says. “For instance, wide open, the new Leica Summaron-M 28 mm f/5.6 renders subjects with rich contrast across almost the entire image field.”
“The combination of extreme depth of field, natural contrast rendition, excellent resolution of details and visible vignetting create a unique visual signature and lend pictures a special look reminiscent of earlier days of analogue photography.”
The lens measures less than 2 centimeters (~0.79 inches) in length, making it extremely compact and perfect for stealthy street photography. The depth of field scale and long focus throw of the lens are also perfect for pre-focusing on the street.
Other specs and features include: an updated contemporary outer look, 6-bit coding, an updated focusing lock button, a solid brass lens hood, and a German hand-made construction.
Here are some sample photos captured using the new Leica Summaron-M 28mm f/5.6:
The new Leica Summaron-M 28mm f/5.6 will cost $2,495 when it hit store shelves, and it can currently be pre-ordered at a Leica store near you.
