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Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

@yukosteel's close-up modification article has been released, which enables the reissued Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim to have a closer focusing distance of around 0.76m.

The Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue (11301) lens has a minimal focus distance (MFD) of 3ft or ~0.9m. This article discusses an experimental modification of the lens focusing mechanics to increase the closer focusing range to approximately 0.76m.
The modification requires precise and accurate grinding of five separate parts, including the MFD focus stopping bar of the outer RF helicoid ring and the elevated area of the inner RF helicoid ring. The modification can be completed by anyone who only needs the lens to focus closer while using Live View or adapting it to another mirrorless system camera.

However, if the lens is to be used with a Leica M rangefinder patch at closer focus, the lens RF couple cylinder must also be modified.

Read the Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue close-up mod article and initial tear-down.

New 0.76m MFD after modification

Apr 30, 2023 at 11:10 AM

RexGig0
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Interesting! Thanks, Fred, for allowing your lens to be the test subject, and, thanks to Yukosteel for performing this delicate task, and creating the presentation.

Apr 30, 2023 at 11:25 AM

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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

RexGig0 wrote:
Interesting! Thanks, Fred, for allowing your lens to be the test subject, and, thanks to Yukosteel for performing this delicate task, and creating the presentation.

For a while, I've been keeping up with Yukosteel's articles and have gained a lot of knowledge from them. Although it involved some risk on my part, I understand that taking risks is essential for discovering new things. I am aware that Yukosteel has come up with a creative method to extend the Leica 35mm f/1.4 Summilux Steel Rim's MFD from 1m to 0.75m, which will be covered in a future article.

Even though I haven't received my lens back, I am excited to test it out next week.

Apr 30, 2023 at 05:02 PM

rscheffler
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Very interesting!

From the article: "Working with quite pricy lens that belongs to other person sets much higher level of responsibility and potential stress. I'd not recommend you to try to disassemble anything unless you first prepare yourself to any potential result, including the risk of completely ruining the object of disassembly."

Not to worry, Don Goldberg has your back.

Apr 30, 2023 at 05:04 PM

highdesertmesa
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Fred Miranda wrote:
For a while, I've been keeping up with Yukosteel's articles and have gained a lot of knowledge from them. Although it involved some risk on my part, I understand that taking risks is essential for discovering new things. I am aware that Yukosteel has come up with a creative method to extend the Leica 35mm f/1.4 Summilux Steel Rim's MFD from 1m to 0.75m, which will be covered in the next article.

Even though I haven't received my lens back, I am excited to test it out next week. As a preview, here's an example that demonstrates how much...Show more →

What a great thing to remove one of the only drawbacks of this lens. I would definitely pay for this modification if I had the SR.

Apr 30, 2023 at 05:30 PM

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

highdesertmesa wrote:
What a great thing to remove one of the only drawbacks of this lens. I would definitely pay for this modification if I had the SR.

After examining the changes made, it appears that Leica had the option to create a reissued Steel Rim with a reduced minimum focusing distance (MFD). However, they chose to retain the 1-meter MFD featured in the original Steel Rim from 1961, and instead focused on improving the mechanics and filter thread size.

May 01, 2023 at 09:37 AM

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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

highdesertmesa wrote:
What a great thing to remove one of the only drawbacks of this lens. I would definitely pay for this modification if I had the SR.

The Leica 35/1.4 lux lens produces a uniquely distinct rendering when focused closer than 1m, but unfortunately, Leica did not fully utilize this capability for the reissued Steel Rim. However, this trait is observable in other lenses, such as the Voigtlander 35/1.4 Nokton M-mount lens which can be focused at 0.7m, and the Voigtlander 35/1.4 Nokton lens designed specifically for Sony mount, which has an even closer focus distance of 0.3m.

After receiving my lens, I plan to share some sample photos that demonstrate the rendering difference between the original 1m MTF and the modified 0.75m MTF.

May 01, 2023 at 03:24 PM

highdesertmesa
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p.1 #8 · p.1 #8 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Fred Miranda wrote:
The Leica 35/1.4 lux lens produces a uniquely distinct rendering when focused closer than 1m, but unfortunately, Leica did not fully utilize this capability for the reissued Steel Rim. However, this trait is observable in other lenses, such as the Voigtlander 35/1.4 Nokton M-mount lens which can be focused at 0.7m, and the Voigtlander 35/1.4 Nokton lens designed specifically for Sony mount, which has an even closer focus distance of 0.3m.

After receiving my lens, I plan to share some sample photos that demonstrate the rendering difference between the original 1m MTF and the modified 0.75m MTF.

The 28 Summaron re-issue is another lens that would greatly benefit from a close focus modification if it would be possible. Its IQ at close distances with a macro adapter on mirrorless is outstanding.

I look forward to your close focus images!

May 01, 2023 at 03:39 PM

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p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

highdesertmesa wrote:
The 28 Summaron re-issue is another lens that would greatly benefit from a close focus modification if it would be possible. Its IQ at close distances with a macro adapter on mirrorless is outstanding.

I look forward to your close focus images!

The Voigt 35/1.4 Nokton lens, designed for "E-mount", creates a distinctive 'painterly' effect that cannot be replicated when focusing on subjects 1 meter or further away, but only when focusing on close-up subjects. (To a lesser degree the M-mount version can get similar results at 0.7m)

Below are a few examples of photos captured by the late @DannyBurkPhoto, whom we all miss dearly:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1566749/1&year=2018#14634624

Some of my samples at 0.5m:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1567259/0&year=2018#14638225

Shown below is a comparison of the Voigtlander 35/1.4 Nokton with the Loxia 35/2 and Voigtlander 40/1.2 lenses, all focused at 0.5m:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1567259/2&year=2018#14638974

May 01, 2023 at 04:29 PM

highdesertmesa
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p.1 #10 · p.1 #10 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Fred Miranda wrote:
The Voigt 35/1.4 Nokton lens, designed for "E-mount", creates a distinctive 'painterly' effect that cannot be replicated when focusing on subjects 1 meter or further away, but only when focusing on close-up subjects. (To a lesser degree the M-mount version can get similar results at 0.7m)

Below are a few examples of photos captured by the late @DannyBurkPhoto@, whom we all miss dearly:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1566749/1&year=2018#14634624

Some of my samples at 0.5m:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1567259/0&year=2018#14638225

Shown below is a comparison of the Voigtlander 35/1.4 Nokton with the Loxia 35/2 and Voigtlander 40/1.2 lenses, all focused at 0.5m:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1567259/2&year=2018#14638974

These are great. Thanks for taking the time to find and put into one post. This really makes me want to try the 40 1.2. I didn’t realize the M version would focus to 0.5m! I do have a used CV 40 2.8 Heliar on the way. Will for sure be trying it at macro adapter distances.

May 01, 2023 at 04:44 PM

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #11 · p.1 #11 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

I just received my Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim back from the close-focus modification.

Despite the significant operation it underwent, the lens performs flawlessly and maintains its original appearance. Even the modification done around the mount area is not noticeable. It remains accurately aligned with the rangefinder, and the focusing ring operates smoothly across the full range, including the newly added range of 0.76m to 1m.

Although the Voigtlander 35/1.4 Nokton still boasts a closer minimum focusing distance of 0.7m when compared to the modified Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim, the latter's newly extended close focus ability is a significant upgrade.

May 02, 2023 at 05:27 PM

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p.1 #12 · p.1 #12 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Wow, this is crazy.... I have been wondering if someone could do this to mine was the cost alot to do this?

May 02, 2023 at 05:44 PM

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #13 · p.1 #13 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Here is a quick comparison showing two images captured at the new 0.76m minimum focus distance (MFD) and the lens's original MFD. Please note that the images were taken handheld, so the framing may not be identical. My main goal was to learn if there were differences in rendering and IQ.

When examining the image captured at 0.76m, I found that it had similar levels of contrast, resolution, and overall "look" compared to the image captured at the lens' original MFD. I didn't see any significant increase in spherical aberration when comparing the two images. However, I did notice an expected increase in the size of specular highlights resulting from being able to focus closer to the subject. I like what I see so far!

There seems to be slightly more blur in the out-of-focus (OOF) areas of the image as well.

Steel Rim's original MFD

Steel Rim's 0.76m MFD

May 03, 2023 at 09:26 PM

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #14 · p.1 #14 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Sample 2 demonstrates the lens' ability to focus much closer to the subject at 0.76m compared to the MFD of the original lens, without any visible reduction in resolution or contrast. The rangefinder was used to focus all samples.
The primary advantage is the ability to capture more of the subject in the frame for better composition when necessary.

Original Steel Rim's MFD

LEICA M10-R Summilux-M 1:1.4/35 lens 35mm f/1.4 1/3000s 100 ISO 0.0 EV

0.76m MFD after mod

LEICA M10-R Summilux-M 1:1.4/35 lens 35mm f/1.4 1/3000s 100 ISO 0.0 EV

May 04, 2023 at 10:31 AM

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #15 · p.1 #15 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Sample 3 showcases the improved close-focus capability following the modification. The resulting rendering appears to be smoother due to increased blur when focusing at a closer range. To facilitate a more accurate comparison of resolution and contrast differences, I consistently position the subject at the center of each sample.

Original Steel Rim's MFD

LEICA M10-R Summilux-M 1:1.4/35 lens 35mm f/1.4 1/2000s 100 ISO 0.0 EV

0.76m MFD Mod

LEICA M10-R Summilux-M 1:1.4/35 lens 35mm f/1.4 1/2000s 100 ISO 0.0 EV

May 04, 2023 at 11:39 AM

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #16 · p.1 #16 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Sample showing the subject focused at 0.76m through the rangefinder. Notice the larger specular highlights and consistent IQ even with the MFD extended. IMO, Leica should've extended the range to 0.7m for this reissue.

LEICA M10-R Summilux-M 1:1.4/35 lens 35mm f/1.4 1/4000s 100 ISO 0.0 EV

Fine detail from image above

May 04, 2023 at 02:53 PM

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p.1 #17 · p.1 #17 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

rscheffler wrote:
From the article: "Working with quite pricy lens that belongs to other person sets much higher level of responsibility and potential stress. I'd not recommend you to try to disassemble anything unless you first prepare yourself to any potential result, including the risk of completely ruining the object of disassembly."

Not to worry, Don Goldberg has your back.

https://www.dagcamera.com/store/p572/It%27s_Best_not_to_take_your_camera_all_apart.html

May 05, 2023 at 04:12 PM

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #18 · p.1 #18 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Here's another example that demonstrates the difference in close-up magnification between the lens at its original minimum focusing distance and with the new modification that brings it down to 0.76 meters.

Original MFD

LEICA M10-R Summilux-M 1:1.4/35 lens 35mm f/1.4 1/500s 100 ISO 0.0 EV

0.76m MFD Mod

LEICA M10-R Summilux-M 1:1.4/35 lens 35mm f/1.4 1/500s 100 ISO 0.0 EV

May 06, 2023 at 12:06 PM

highdesertmesa
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p.1 #19 · p.1 #19 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

Fred, did you get your redesigned hood yet? Someone on Leica Forum reported they received the clip-on hood by mistake.

This lens just came back into stock on Leica USA's website, and I (finally) ordered one. Cannot wait to have the look of this lens at f/1.4 back after having sold my old pre-ASPH v2. Will be using this on the M6 and on the SL2-S with the macro adapter, so I'm glad to see the IQ and rendering is nice at distances closer than 1m.

I wish Leica would have included "Steel Rim" in the EXIF of the lens profile.

They have one more left in stock if anyone is interested.

May 09, 2023 at 01:30 PM

Fred Miranda
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p.1 #20 · p.1 #20 · Close-up Mod - Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue lens

highdesertmesa wrote:
Fred, did you get your redesigned hood yet? Someone on Leica Forum reported they received the clip-on hood by mistake.

This lens just came back into stock on Leica USA's website, and I (finally) ordered one. Cannot wait to have the look of this lens at f/1.4 back after having sold my old pre-ASPH v2. Will be using this on the M6 and on the SL2-S with the macro adapter, so I'm glad to see the IQ and rendering is nice at distances closer than 1m.

I wish Leica would have included "Steel Rim" in the EXIF of the lens profile.

They have...Show more →

I did receive an email regarding it, but unfortunately, I never received a tracking number. I contacted Leica to follow up, and they informed me that the new hood is not yet available.

Wow, nice one on getting your hands on the new Leica 35/1.4 Steel Rim! I've been using the pre-asph v2 for some time now, but I gotta say, the new reissued lens looks even better. It's got that same old-school feel but with a bit more contrast when you shoot wide open. That's just my personal preference though!

May 09, 2023 at 03:59 PM

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