Voigtlander Nokton Classic 35mm f/1.4 II MC/SC
Announced May 7, 2019
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Voigtlander Nokton Classic 35mm f/1.4 II is a compact, metal-bodied lens that offers a blend of classic character at wide apertures and modern sharpness when stopped down. Although it lacks the clinical precision of more expensive alternatives, it remains a highly portable and capable walk-around option for rangefinder photographers.
Weighted from 6 reviewer scores
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for travel
- High-quality, all-metal construction
- Sharp optical performance when stopped down
- Classic rendering with appealing color and contrast
- Smooth focus and tactile aperture rings
Cons
- Various optical artifacts including flare, distortion, and purple fringing
- Softness and vignetting at wider apertures
- Lens hood not included in the purchase
- Limited minimum focusing distance
- Small size can lead to handling confusion between rings
- Launch price $679 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 35mm f/1.4
- Mount & coverage Leica M Full-Frame
- Close focus 70 cm
- Filter thread 43mm
- Weight & size 189g (6.7 oz) · 55 x 28.5 mm (2.17 x 1.12 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 6 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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I feel the Voigtlander Nokton 35mm f1.4 II MC has a lot offer. Its compact, fast, and well-made.
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I think the Voigtländer Nokton Classic strikes a happy medium in terms of price, build quality, and optical performance. It costs far less than any Leica lens I’ve seen, yet it feels like a solid performer.
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Do I wish this was a Leica Summilux or even a Summicron? Yeah, most definitely, but until I can purchase one of those lenses, this lens is definitely a good lens to own.
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This lens is a perfect, tiny, little, rangefinder lens. If you are comparing this lens to a vintage camera lens (which is what you are supposed to be comparing it to) there is no comparison.
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[T]his is a compact lens and, in my opinion, it performs very well. [...] Finally, the lens is lightweight, and when paired with the A7C, it’s portable and easy to carry.
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My take on the Voigtlander Nokton 35mm 1.4 II is this: I wanted a light, small and fast lens for my Leica M, and this lens fits the bill perfectly.
