p.18 #1 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
I am slightly leaning towards Silver chrome though my MS collections are black. I worry about the paint falling off inside the lens barrel.
Juha Kannisto wrote:
I usually like black lenses just because my cameras are all black etc. and I usually only buy silver versions when they are the only ones available. My MS-Optics Sonnetar 73/1.5, H-Petz 57/2 and H-Prot 40/6.3 (Silver Rhodium rather than Chrome) are Silver versions. I've found that the MS-Optics Silver Chrome versions might actually be more durable in terms of finish, i.e. for some reason they still look new and fresh over long period of use while some of my Black Chrome lenses show more surface paint wear easier & quicker even though I've used them about equally. So if you are happy with the color scheme itself, I think there's nothing bad I could say about the Silver Chrome versions.
p.18 #2 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
I haven't noticed any paint issues inside the lens barrel with any of my MS-Optics lenses, but some of my Black Chrome ones do have somre more paint wear on the outside barrel of the lens than my Silver Chrome ones. Nothing major that would cause concern though, and I've still continued to buy black versions of the lenses when both are available (for example in the case of the Lumitar 50/3.5 that should hopefully ship before end of May).
Mayasan wrote:
I am slightly leaning towards Silver chrome though my MS collections are black. I worry about the paint falling off inside the lens barrel.
p.18 #3 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Juha Kannisto wrote:
I haven't noticed any paint issues inside the lens barrel with any of my MS-Optics lenses, but some of my Black Chrome ones do have somre more paint wear on the outside barrel of the lens than my Silver Chrome ones. Nothing major that would cause concern though, and I've still continued to buy black versions of the lenses when both are available (for example in the case of the Lumitar 50/3.5 that should hopefully ship before end of May).
I've noticed their lens finishes hold up pretty well overall. I'm guessing the silver versions might be anodized and that could explain why they don't show much wear.
The only paint that has shown more noticeable wear for me is the glossy URUSHI paint.
p.18 #4 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
I received an e-mail from MKDirect informing that my Lumitar 50/3.5 (Black MC in M-mount) has arrived. I completed payment right after. They wrote that they starting shipping them out from June 5th so I hope to get mine in time for next weekend. Looking forward to shooting with it!
In the meanwhile I'm enjoying my new Otus ML 50/1.4
p.18 #5 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Juha Kannisto wrote:
I received an e-mail from MKDirect informing that my Lumitar 50/3.5 (Black MC in M-mount) has arrived. I completed payment right after. They wrote that they starting shipping them out from June 5th so I hope to get mine in time for next weekend. Looking forward to shooting with it!
In the meanwhile I'm enjoying my new Otus ML 50/1.4
Congrats on picking up the Otus 50/1.4. That must feel like quite a modern shift compared to your MS Optics lenses.
I had forgotten just how painterly the rendering from the MS Optics 57/2 PETZ can be. I do wish I had the vario version, but I'm still happy with mine since I'm focusing it through the rangefinder.
Here is a sample that shows the rendering. Nothing fancy...just having some fun with it on a cloudy day.
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 57mm f/2 PETZ lens57mmf/1.41/1500s200 ISO0.0 EV
p.18 #6 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Fred Miranda wrote:
Congrats on picking up the Otus 50/1.4. That must feel like quite a modern shift compared to your MS Optics lenses.
I had forgotten just how painterly the rendering from the MS Optics 57/2 PETZ can be. I do wish I had the vario version, but I'm still happy with mine since I'm focusing it through the rangefinder.
Here is a sample that shows the rendering. Nothing fancy...just having some fun with it on a cloudy day.
Thanks!
That's a nice shot with the Petz
Yes, shooting with the Otus 50/1.4 surely feels different from shooting with the MS-Optics lenses in terms of size and handling as well as the image results. I can enjoy both types. I should get my Lumitar in the morning of 6th of June and I'll shoot with it next weekend. Will post samples as soon as I have them
p.18 #7 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Juha Kannisto wrote:
I received an e-mail from MKDirect informing that my Lumitar 50/3.5 (Black MC in M-mount) has arrived.
So you are getting the multi-coated? I saw they are offering coated and multi-coated. (black and silver finishes)
For those wondering, here is a translation from the lens manual to English:
===============
LUMITAR 35/50
Early Prototype of the Original Elmar
The LUMITAR 35/50 is an Anastigmat lens with a 3-group, 5-element construction, designed in 1925 by Max Berek at Leitz. It shares the same optical layout as the “ELMAX 35/50.” The ELMAX is the prototype lens that laid the foundation for Leica’s later development and legendary reputation.
Due to patent issues with Zeiss Tessar and similar lenses, and because the rear three elements were cemented together behind the diaphragm, it was hard to distinguish from other designs. Berek had to develop a new lens with accurate correction under significant material constraints.
At the time, optical glass was limited, and many of the materials used back then are now unavailable. Berek made use of a few similar materials, and without relying on automatic design, completed the ELMAX entirely by hand calculation. As a result, the lens performance was excellent, even by today’s standards.
The shift to a 5.1 or 5.6 cm focal length was not precisely recorded, but the lens’s performance and character were said to be very close to the original.
(About lens performance)
At full aperture, some spherical aberration remains, but it resolves 6.5 micron detail (stopped down to around f/4, this is resolved). In the mid-frame, the image is flattened by the mediating element, and while it’s slightly different from modern lenses like the Summicron and Summilux, it recreates the character of lenses from that time.
When stopped down to f/8, the lens reaches peak performance. Despite minimal coating on the surfaces, contrast is sufficient, and the color reproduction has a natural tone. The circular bokeh created by the 12-blade aperture gives it a unique and enjoyable rendering.
p.18 #8 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Hi Fred,
Yes, I'm getting the multi-coated black M-mount version. The other option is "uncoated" or non-coat as they called it, and only 70 will be available as uncoated. I think the uncoated version it is part of the concept of the lens being a re-creation (though not identical) of the Elmax lens on the original 1925 Leica I camera, and apparently that lens was uncoated for the first couple of years (the name got changed to Elmar later). There was some change of optical formula later too.
I wasn't quite sure how the uncoated version would do against light, so I decided to play it safe and get the standard MC version. I think the MC coatings on MS-Optics lenses leave room for quite impressive flares as it is and uncoated might take it over the top. Perhaps uncoated will be nice for portrait photographers but I'd like to use the lens for all kinds of walkaround shooting and less for portraits.
Fred Miranda wrote:
So you are getting the multi-coated? I saw they are offering coated and multi-coated. (black and silver finishes)
For those wondering, here is a translation from the lens manual to English:
===============
LUMITAR 35/50
Early Prototype of the Original Elmar
The LUMITAR 35/50 is an Anastigmat lens with a 3-group, 5-element construction, designed in 1925 by Max Berek at Leitz. It shares the same optical layout as the “ELMAX 35/50.” The ELMAX is the prototype lens that laid the foundation for Leica’s later development and legendary reputation.
Due to patent issues with Zeiss Tessar and similar lenses, and because the rear three elements were cemented together behind the diaphragm, it was hard to distinguish from other designs. Berek had to develop a new lens with accurate correction under significant material constraints.
At the time, optical glass was limited, and many of the materials used back then are now unavailable. Berek made use of a few similar materials, and without relying on automatic design, completed the ELMAX entirely by hand calculation. As a result, the lens performance was excellent, even by today’s standards.
The shift to a 5.1 or 5.6 cm focal length was not precisely recorded, but the lens’s performance and character were said to be very close to the original.
(About lens performance)
At full aperture, some spherical aberration remains, but it resolves 6.5 micron detail (stopped down to around f/4, this is resolved). In the mid-frame, the image is flattened by the mediating element, and while it’s slightly different from modern lenses like the Summicron and Summilux, it recreates the character of lenses from that time.
When stopped down to f/8, the lens reaches peak performance. Despite minimal coating on the surfaces, contrast is sufficient, and the color reproduction has a natural tone. The circular bokeh created by the 12-blade aperture gives it a unique and enjoyable rendering.
p.18 #9 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
freddy_hayek wrote:
Looking forward to your images.
I saw that a 50/3.5 Xenomax is available. What exactly is that design about?
It's based on Xenotar lens formula and according to MS-Optics it's their highest performing lens in terms of pure IQ. It's indeed very sharp at all focus distances and has very solid IQ from corner to corner. It has large image circle that can fully cover the digital medium format sensors (Fuji GFX etc.).
As such it's not very characterful lens like many other MS-Optics lenses. It's very light and can focus to 0.5m natively. I think it was not very popular because many MS-Optics fans are especially after the fastest and most characterful designs and a more normal type of lens didn't generate as much excitement. I have one and I like it but it's also not at the top of my list when I think of my favorites. However, it's a very solid lens. Somewhat reminiscent of CV Heliar 50/3.5 in terms of IQ. You can see links to my sample albums with the lens here:
p.18 #10 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
My Lumitar arrived about 20 min ago. It's Black #73. Hard infinity calibration seems to be perfect with my Rayqual adapter and I've found no problems in initial checking.
The lens comes with a black plastic 34mm front cap that can be used conveniently as a hood cap (just like the 43mm plastic back cap but smaller diameter), so I'm happy I don't have to find another front cap solution for this lens. Many other MS-Optics lenses have come with small screw-on metal caps that are not so practical in use. Looking forward to shooting with it today (lunch break) and this weekend.
p.18 #11 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Juha Kannisto wrote:
My Lumitar arrived about 20 min ago. It's Black #73. Hard infinity calibration seems to be perfect with my Rayqual adapter and I've found no problems in initial checking.
The lens comes with a black plastic 34mm front cap that can be used conveniently as a hood cap (just like the 43mm plastic back cap but smaller diameter), so I'm happy I don't have to find another front cap solution for this lens. Many other MS-Optics lenses have come with small screw-on metal caps that are not so practical in use. Looking forward to shooting with it today (lunch break) and this weekend.
p.18 #12 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Some samples with the Lumitar from today's lunch break at Ebisu & Hiroo, processed from Raw via C1 Pro with some of my usual favorite presets. I'm enjoying the lens so far, I think it has charming IQ with very nice color and tasty bokeh. Handling is pleasant too.
p.18 #15 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Juha Kannisto wrote:
Some samples with the Lumitar from today's lunch break at Ebisu & Hiroo, processed from Raw via C1 Pro with some of my usual favorite presets. I'm enjoying the lens so far, I think it has charming IQ with very nice color and tasty bokeh. Handling is pleasant too.
What an amazing gallery to assess this lens. It's far more insightful than any written review.
Your photos say more than words ever could. I see a high-performing lens that also has a gentle way of capturing detail and a unique character in its rendering. Honestly, I’m impressed. This isn’t just another typical 50mm f/3.5..
p.18 #16 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Fred Miranda wrote:
What an amazing gallery to assess this lens. It's far more insightful than any written review.
Your photos say more than words ever could. I see a high-performing lens that also has a gentle way of capturing detail and a unique character in its rendering. Honestly, I’m impressed. This isn’t just another typical 50mm f/3.5..
Thanks very much Fred and all!
I'm enjoying the lens a lot so far I shot with it today at old style Shinagawa shopping street areas where they happened to have a nice traditional summer festival going on and yesterday I went to Kichijoji.
p.18 #17 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Juha Kannisto wrote:
Thanks very much Fred and all!
I'm enjoying the lens a lot so far I shot with it today at old style Shinagawa shopping street areas where they happened to have a nice traditional summer festival going on and yesterday I went to Kichijoji.
I was considering picking one up, but ended up going with the MS Optics 50mm f/1 instead. It's a lens I've been wanting to try for a while, and now I'll have it alongside the 57mm f/2 Petz.
Depending on how the f/1 performs, I might part with my 50mm f/1.3 Sonnetar.
p.18 #18 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Fred Miranda wrote:
Thanks, Juha! Great reportage from Shinagawa.
I was considering picking one up, but ended up going with the MS Optics 50mm f/1 instead. It's a lens I've been wanting to try for a while, and now I'll have it alongside the 57mm f/2 Petz.
Depending on how the f/1 performs, I might part with my 50mm f/1.3 Sonnetar.
Thanks Fred! I'm curious to find out how you feel about the 50/1 ISM once you have had a chance to use it. I had some chances to buy one as new (some of the special color editions) from Lemonsha Ginza while they still had old stock but they were 165K yen and I didn't have a suitable budget for one at the time. They disappeared before I had a chance to get one. In the aftermarket the prices have only gone up from there and I haven't seen any good deals... Those show up quite rarely in Japanese 2nd hand stores. Based on Bastian's review it could be and interesting one but with various caveats.
Nowadays, I've almost given up on getting 50/1, 50/1.1 or the original Apoqualia or Reiroal 35/1.4 since they are just so highly priced in the 2nd hand market and copy specific risks are higher when buying from auctions or other misc. sources where price might be a bit better sometimes. I'm looking forward to any new future releases instead
p.18 #19 · MS-Optics lenses Image and Discussion Thread
Juha Kannisto wrote:
Thanks Fred! I'm curious to find out how you feel about the 50/1 ISM once you have had a chance to use it. I had some chances to buy one as new (some of the special color editions) from Lemonsha Ginza while they still had old stock but they were 165K yen and I didn't have a suitable budget for one at the time. They disappeared before I had a chance to get one. In the aftermarket the prices have only gone up from there and I haven't seen any good deals... Those show up quite rarely in Japanese 2nd hand stores. Based on Bastian's review it could be and interesting one but with various caveats.
Nowadays, I've almost given up on getting 50/1, 50/1.1 or the original Apoqualia or Reiroal 35/1.4 since they are just so highly priced in the 2nd hand market and copy specific risks are higher when buying from auctions or other misc. sources where price might be a bit better sometimes. I'm looking forward to any new future releases instead ...Show more →
Juha, you should try to get the MS Optics 50/1 ISM. I just received mine in Silver and it has become my favorite MS Optics lens.
Based on the reviews I read, I was expecting heavy vignetting and soft results wide open, but this lens actually performs very similarly to the Leica 35mm f/1.4 Lux Pre-asph, just in a 50mm FL. If you zoom in to 100%, you can see fine detail just like with the Leica. The spherical aberration lowers contrast and adds a beautiful glow to the image. Coma is also not corrected, which contributes to the lens's unique rendering.
I took a few shots during a short walk today right after receiving the lens. I used my M10-P Safari at ISO 200, so some highlights are blown since all images were shot wide open at f/1. I also didn't correct for vignetting so you can see how well-controlled it is. Honestly, it's even better than the Leica 50/1 Noctilux in that regard. I didn't use the included hood to see how it handles flare and I love the veiling is produces against the sun.
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/4000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/3000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/3000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/5.61/4000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/4000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/1000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/4000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.71/4000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/4000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/2000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/4000s200 ISO0.0 EV
LEICA M10-PMS-Optics 50mm f/1.0 ISM lens50mmf/1.01/4000s200 ISO0.0 EV
