Fred Miranda wrote:
There may be some resemblance in barrel aesthetics, FL, and maximum aperture, but the similarities end there. The Voigtlander 35mm f/3.5 Color-Skopar isn't based on a double Gauss design, and its superior performance and color-error correction don't really match that classic formula.
It's also noticeably smaller and lighter, though that might not make a big difference in practice since both lenses are already quite compact.
Despite the incredibly compact design of the CV 35mm f/3.5, it delivers excellent resolution and contrast, even on today's high-MP sensors. In my tests, including scenes with extreme contrast, its performance is so well-corrected that it feels nearly apochromatic. While the f/3.5 maximum aperture limits its versatility in low light, it remains one of my favorite lenses Cosina has ever made....Show more →
Wow noticeably smaller than the Summaron? The summaron is so tiny.
35mm is mostly a landscape FL for me so 3.5 isn't a big drawback, especially if it's good wide open. Even though it came out in the 1940's I mean I doubt it's that hard to make a 3.5 relatively common fl , my summaron seems great. Although I suppose I haven't put it through the paces in the corners and I suspect some may have been "repaired", hurting performance
AmbientMike wrote:
Wow noticeably smaller than the Summaron? The summaron is so tiny.
35mm is mostly a landscape FL for me so 3.5 isn't a big drawback, especially if it's good wide open. Even though it came out in the 1940's I mean I doubt it's that hard to make a 3.5 relatively common fl , my summaron seems great. Although I suppose I haven't put it through the paces in the corners and I suspect some may have been "repaired", hurting performance
Yes, although I might be off slightly on the exact dimensions, the classic Leica 35mm f/3.5 Summaron (produced from 1946 to 1960) is noticeably longer than the new Voigtlander 35/3.5. The Summaron measures about 26mm in length from mount to front, which is nearly twice the length of the 14mm Voigtlander!! So, yeah, the difference is definitely noticeable. The Summaron also weighs in at around 130 grams, compared to 99 grams for the Cosina lens. So, 30% heavier while both are brass lenses.
The Leica 28mm f/5.6 Summaron gets a bit closer to the Voigtlander 35mm f/3.5 Color-Skopar in height but it's still 4mm longer.
I think you will find it is very different, in all important aspects. Better or not is for each to judge, but Cosina obviously feel it is a significant lens for them, the kind they want to produce also. All that modern glass elevates it in the hierarchy and yes, Bobby should do another on an M body. I think it will become a classic.
I appreciate the question. I haven't compared them directly, so I can't say for sure, but here are my thoughts. Both lenses have a similar modern rendering style and deliver high contrast and resolution, especially considering their size and optical design. The Zeiss is larger and also faster, but I would imagine the new Voigtlander keeps up with it and might even perform better in the corners. I owned the Zeiss for a couple of years and really enjoyed shooting with it. If you look at the Voigtlander 35mm f/2 Ultron comparison at f/2.8, you should get a good idea of how the Zeiss performs against the 35mm f/3.5 Color-Skopar. These 3 lenses actually share more similarities than differences at similar apertures.
Fred Miranda wrote:
I haven't tested it, but I doubt it would be an issue since the rear element doesn't stick out much.
Purchased and mounted the lens on M5, the rear element did not hit the meter arm. I am looking forward to check out how the lens perform on film particular light fall off at wide open.
Luca101 wrote:
Purchased and mounted the lens on M5, the rear element did not hit the meter arm. I am looking forward to check out how the lens perform on film particular light fall off at wide open.
Fred Miranda wrote:
I'm wondering what would be a good 6-bit code for the CV 35mm f/3.5 Color-Skopar. Since there’s no Leica 35mm f/3.5 that's already coded, the closest match might be one of the Summarits.
The distortion on the Summarit is barrel instead of pin, like this one. Won't coding it as the Summarit apply the corrections typical for the Summarit? In other words, won't it make the distortion worse?
freaklikeme wrote:
The distortion on the Summarit is barrel instead of pin, like this one. Won't coding it as the Summarit apply the corrections typical for the Summarit? In other words, won't it make the distortion worse?
The 6 bit code does not correct distortion. It only applies vignetting and color shading correction.
Just wondering if you have any thoughts on the 3.5 vs its 2.5 color-skopar older brother? Both very tiny, both very good - I know you had the 2.5 alongside the Ultron for a little while. There’s a big interval of Cosina barrel design refinement in between. I’m exclusively a film shooter, if it’s relevant.
Just wondering if you have any thoughts on the 3.5 vs its 2.5 color-skopar older brother? Both very tiny, both very good - I know you had the 2.5 alongside the Ultron for a little while. There’s a big interval of Cosina barrel design refinement in between. I’m exclusively a film shooter, if it’s relevant.
The Voigtlander 35mm f/2.5 Color-Skopar is a great lens and impressively compact. I've owned it for a while and would say its performance should be pretty close to the f/3.5 version. Of course, the f/2.5 has the edge in light gathering and gives you a bit more subject separation, but the main standout feature of the 35mm f/3.5 Color-Skopar is its size and built quality...it's the smallest modern 35mm lens out there. On top of that, it has a very classic feel when handling.
I‘m surprised there isn’t more buzz around this lens. It’s a bit expensive for the specs (799€ over here..) but the form factor and weight vs performance is just amazing. And it looks amazing, too.
Still debating whether this one or the 50mm f2.2 will be the next lens for my Leica. I don’t have a 50mm in M mount yet, but at the moment I’m still leaning to the 35mm f3.5
I was curious how the CV 35mm f/3.5 Color-Skopar would look on the Safari, and I got my answer today. My Leica M10-P Safari arrived, and I took a few shots with this lens. I think it's a great combo and the smallest silver lens one could pair with it. The Leica 28/5.6 comes the closest but it's slightly longer than the Voigtlander.
The clear winner when it comes to size (and one I also happen to have in chrome) is the MS Optics 24mm f/2 APORIA. This lens has a beautiful rendering and it's close to 28mm. (Same image below)
Leica M10 with MS Optics 24mm f/2 APORIA wide open
Fred Miranda wrote:
The clear winner when it comes to size (and one I also happen to have in chrome) is the MS Optics 24mm f/2 APORIA. This lens has a beautiful rendering and it's close to 28mm. (Same image below)
I think that is the greatest pic I’ve ever seen Fred post. And no it has nothing to do with that noble creature gazing majestically back at the camera.
Desmolicious wrote:
I think that is the greatest pic I’ve ever seen Fred post. And no it has nothing to do with that noble creature gazing majestically back at the camera.
