Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
p.1 #1Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
I'm looking for a fast M-mount lens in the f/1.0-f/1.4 range, somewhere between 35mm and 50mm.
For reference, I already own a 35mm Summicron-M ASPH (v2), and it is basically perfect. It's as sharp as I could ever need, has great handling, and I have no complaints about its rendering at all. It's basically the extra stop (or two) I'm seeking.
I've been considering the first-generation 35mm Summilux-M ASPH FLE, but I'm wondering if it might be too similar to my Summicron. Since I already have what I consider the ideal 35mm lens, perhaps it would make more sense to buy something that complements it rather than overlaps with it.
Other lenses currently on my shortlist are the latest Voigtländer Nokton versions in 35mm, 40mm, and 50mm f/1.2. I previously owned the Leica 35mm Summilux Steel Rim Reissue, but it wasn't really for me. I'm looking for something that is "sharp" and well-corrected, rather than a lens built around vintage character or imperfections.
One important point: whichever lens I buy will be used predominantly wide open. Performance at maximum aperture matters much more to me than stopped-down performance.
For context, I also own two Voigtländer lenses:
28mm Color-Skopar 28mm f/2.8 II
50mm Color-Skopar 50mm f/2.2
These have been my work horses for much of the last year, and I will never part with them!
Given what I already have, would you go for the 35mm FLE, or one of the Nokton 35/40/50mm f/1.2 lenses? I'd be especially interested in hearing from people who have owned both the 35mm Summicron ASPH and one or more of these Noktons.
For reference, I already own a 35mm Summicron-M ASPH (v2), and it is basically perfect. It's as sharp as I could ever need, has great handling, and I have no complaints about its rendering at all. It's basically the extra stop (or two) I'm seeking.
I've been considering the first-generation 35mm Summilux-M ASPH FLE, but I'm wondering if it might be too similar to my Summicron. Since I already have what I consider the ideal 35mm lens, perhaps it would make more sense to buy something that complements it rather than overlaps with it.
Other lenses currently on my shortlist are the latest Voigtländer Nokton versions in 35mm, 40mm, and 50mm f/1.2. I previously owned the Leica 35mm Summilux Steel Rim Reissue, but it wasn't really for me. I'm looking for something that is "sharp" and well-corrected, rather than a lens built around vintage character or imperfections.
One important point: whichever lens I buy will be used predominantly wide open. Performance at maximum aperture matters much more to me than stopped-down performance.
For context, I also own two Voigtländer lenses:
28mm Color-Skopar 28mm f/2.8 II
50mm Color-Skopar 50mm f/2.2
These have been my work horses for much of the last year, and I will never part with them!
Given what I already have, would you go for the 35mm FLE, or one of the Nokton 35/40/50mm f/1.2 lenses? I'd be especially interested in hearing from people who have owned both the 35mm Summicron ASPH and one or more of these Noktons.
Sep 02, 2026 at 01:38 PM
p.1 #2Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
If you don't mind purple fringing in harsh conditions, FLE v1 is a great choice.
Sep 02, 2026 at 01:53 PM
p.1 #3Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
In terms of "performance" are you looking for edge to edge sharpness? Does field curvature matter at all? Focus shift? Does size/weight matter? There are so many fast 35-50mm lenses available in M mount you could spend a good year researching them.
My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Leica 50mm F1.4 Summilux V3 - Pre ASPH for me all the way. V3 over V2 for the improved minimum focus distance
Canon 50mm F0.95 "Dream Lens" - I've tried a ton of fast 50's and I've yet to see anything that renders like this lens
Zeiss 35mm F1.4 Distagon ZM - big and heavy but if you can tolerate it you get incredible IQ.
I think the Voigtlanders are fine I've tried the 35 and 50 1.2's and the IQ is fine I just didn't really connect with the lenses
My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Leica 50mm F1.4 Summilux V3 - Pre ASPH for me all the way. V3 over V2 for the improved minimum focus distance
Canon 50mm F0.95 "Dream Lens" - I've tried a ton of fast 50's and I've yet to see anything that renders like this lens
Zeiss 35mm F1.4 Distagon ZM - big and heavy but if you can tolerate it you get incredible IQ.
I think the Voigtlanders are fine I've tried the 35 and 50 1.2's and the IQ is fine I just didn't really connect with the lenses
Sep 02, 2026 at 01:59 PM
p.1 #4Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
selahsean wrote:
In terms of "performance" are you looking for edge to edge sharpness? Does field curvature matter at all? Focus shift? Does size/weight matter? There are so many fast 35-50mm lenses available in M mount you could spend a good year researching them.
My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Leica 50mm F1.4 Summilux V3 - Pre ASPH for me all the way. V3 over V2 for the improved minimum focus...Show more →
I don't need the sharpest lens out there, at these apertures my eyes are more than likely to be the weak spot. On the other hand, I have to admit that I've never really liked the "character lenses" I've tried.
I have actually owned the Zeiss Distagon, and that was waaaay to large for my liking. Optically it was the best Zeiss lens I've ever tried.
Weight is a factor, and that is also one of the reasons I'm considering the version II Noktons (and IV version of the 35mm).
In terms of "performance" are you looking for edge to edge sharpness? Does field curvature matter at all? Focus shift? Does size/weight matter? There are so many fast 35-50mm lenses available in M mount you could spend a good year researching them.
My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Leica 50mm F1.4 Summilux V3 - Pre ASPH for me all the way. V3 over V2 for the improved minimum focus...Show more →
I don't need the sharpest lens out there, at these apertures my eyes are more than likely to be the weak spot. On the other hand, I have to admit that I've never really liked the "character lenses" I've tried.
I have actually owned the Zeiss Distagon, and that was waaaay to large for my liking. Optically it was the best Zeiss lens I've ever tried.
Weight is a factor, and that is also one of the reasons I'm considering the version II Noktons (and IV version of the 35mm).
Sep 02, 2026 at 02:09 PM
p.1 #5Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
patashnik wrote:
My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Leica 50mm F1.4 Summilux V3 - Pre ASPH for me all the way. V3 over V2 for the improved minimum focus distance
Canon 50mm F0.95 "Dream Lens" - I've tried a ton of fast 50's and I've yet to see anything that renders like this lens
Zeiss 35mm F1.4 Distagon ZM - big and heavy but if you can tolerate it you get incredible IQ.
I think the Voigtlanders are fine I've tried the 35 and 50 1.2's and the IQ is fine I just didn't really connect with the lensesI don't need the sharpest lens out there, at these apertures my eyes are more than likely to be the weak spot. On the other hand, I have to admit that I've never really liked the "character lenses" I've tried.
I have actually owned the Zeiss Distagon, and that was waaaay to large for my liking. Optically it was the best Zeiss lens I've ever tried.
Weight is a factor, and that is also one of the reasons I'm considering the version II Noktons (and IV version of the 35mm).
The 35mm Nokton is still pretty heavy and for my money doesn't offer enough at 1.2 to offset that vs a 1.4 Leica. My guess is that you'll probably be very happy with a FLE v1 35 and probably never look back. The other option is try everything else first before resigning yourself to the Leica.
selahsean wrote
In terms of "performance" are you looking for edge to edge sharpness? Does field curvature matter at all? Focus shift? Does size/weight matter? There are so many fast 35-50mm lenses available in M mount you could spend a good year researching them.My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Leica 50mm F1.4 Summilux V3 - Pre ASPH for me all the way. V3 over V2 for the improved minimum focus distance
Canon 50mm F0.95 "Dream Lens" - I've tried a ton of fast 50's and I've yet to see anything that renders like this lens
Zeiss 35mm F1.4 Distagon ZM - big and heavy but if you can tolerate it you get incredible IQ.
I think the Voigtlanders are fine I've tried the 35 and 50 1.2's and the IQ is fine I just didn't really connect with the lenses
I have actually owned the Zeiss Distagon, and that was waaaay to large for my liking. Optically it was the best Zeiss lens I've ever tried.
Weight is a factor, and that is also one of the reasons I'm considering the version II Noktons (and IV version of the 35mm).
The 35mm Nokton is still pretty heavy and for my money doesn't offer enough at 1.2 to offset that vs a 1.4 Leica. My guess is that you'll probably be very happy with a FLE v1 35 and probably never look back. The other option is try everything else first before resigning yourself to the Leica.
Sep 02, 2026 at 02:19 PM
p.1 #6Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
I like the 35mm/1.5 Voigt. I had almost all the 35mm Summilux and Summicron before. I do not miss them.
In fact, I prefer the Voigt bokeh by far to the Summilux ASPH.
In fact, I prefer the Voigt bokeh by far to the Summilux ASPH.
Sep 02, 2026 at 02:35 PM
p.1 #7Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
selahsean wrote:
In terms of "performance" are you looking for edge to edge sharpness? Does field curvature matter at all? Focus shift? Does size/weight matter?
My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Fred gave some thoughts on why he prefers the FLE over the 35 ASPH pre-FLE (11874) here: https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1955161/1#17099189
Personally I only notice focus-shift on my copy of the pre-FLE if I look for it. The LLL AA is also a contender, but I haven't used one myself.
In terms of "performance" are you looking for edge to edge sharpness? Does field curvature matter at all? Focus shift? Does size/weight matter?
My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Fred gave some thoughts on why he prefers the FLE over the 35 ASPH pre-FLE (11874) here: https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1955161/1#17099189
Personally I only notice focus-shift on my copy of the pre-FLE if I look for it. The LLL AA is also a contender, but I haven't used one myself.
Sep 02, 2026 at 03:12 PM
p.1 #8Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
weatherproof wrote:
My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.Fred gave some thoughts on why he prefers the FLE over the 35 ASPH pre-FLE (11874) here: https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1955161/1#17099189
Personally I only notice focus-shift on my copy of the pre-FLE if I look for it. The LLL AA is also a contender, but I haven't used one myself.
Yeah the LLL has definitely caught my eye but like you I don't have any experience with it. Honestly when people ask why shoot Leica M the vast amount of options we have for lenses is the absolute top of my list. It doesn't matter what you're looking for in a lens you can find it an M mount option (well minus AF of course).
selahsean wrote
In terms of "performance" are you looking for edge to edge sharpness? Does field curvature matter at all? Focus shift? Does size/weight matter?My favorites in no particular order:
Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux Pre FLE - I like the rendering on this version better than the FLE that followed it. If I'm using it closer up on something I like the softer rendering.
Personally I only notice focus-shift on my copy of the pre-FLE if I look for it. The LLL AA is also a contender, but I haven't used one myself.
Yeah the LLL has definitely caught my eye but like you I don't have any experience with it. Honestly when people ask why shoot Leica M the vast amount of options we have for lenses is the absolute top of my list. It doesn't matter what you're looking for in a lens you can find it an M mount option (well minus AF of course).
Sep 02, 2026 at 03:55 PM
p.1 #9Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
patashnik wrote:
I'm looking for a fast M-mount lens in the f/1.0-f/1.4 range, somewhere between 35mm and 50mm.
It's all very individual, of course. For me, a single 35mm FLE V1 is enough—I've been shooting with it for 15 years. You already have a Summicron—it's a great lens.
But a 50mm is never enough for me; I use them too differently. And there's a huge difference in artistic expression between the fast Summarit 50/1.5 and Summilux 50/1.4. Not to mention the Noctiluxes. My 50mm APO barely even needs to be used, while others shoot 2,000-3,000 shots a month. And it's just a hobby. So, the selection is vast and there are so many excellent lenses. And as mentioned above, the Canon 50mm/0.95 and F1.8 are excellent lenses.
I'm looking for a fast M-mount lens in the f/1.0-f/1.4 range, somewhere between 35mm and 50mm.
It's all very individual, of course. For me, a single 35mm FLE V1 is enough—I've been shooting with it for 15 years. You already have a Summicron—it's a great lens.
But a 50mm is never enough for me; I use them too differently. And there's a huge difference in artistic expression between the fast Summarit 50/1.5 and Summilux 50/1.4. Not to mention the Noctiluxes. My 50mm APO barely even needs to be used, while others shoot 2,000-3,000 shots a month. And it's just a hobby. So, the selection is vast and there are so many excellent lenses. And as mentioned above, the Canon 50mm/0.95 and F1.8 are excellent lenses.
Sep 02, 2026 at 04:29 PM
p.1 #10Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
pmeheut wrote:
I like the 35mm/1.5 Voigt. I had almost all the 35mm Summilux and Summicron before. I do not miss them.
In fact, I prefer the Voigt bokeh by far to the Summilux ASPH.
I feel like this lens doesn't have the best reputation (just kind of meh) but it's on my m11 90% of the time. It's really nice in terms of size and weight too. I got a ring to cover up the silver on the front and it's become my go to.
I like the 35mm/1.5 Voigt. I had almost all the 35mm Summilux and Summicron before. I do not miss them.
In fact, I prefer the Voigt bokeh by far to the Summilux ASPH.
I feel like this lens doesn't have the best reputation (just kind of meh) but it's on my m11 90% of the time. It's really nice in terms of size and weight too. I got a ring to cover up the silver on the front and it's become my go to.
Sep 02, 2026 at 04:37 PM
|
p.1 #11Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
I have the 35 & 50 summicrons and love them both for travel and general purpose stuff. I bought the 35 Distagon and the 50 Nokton f1 as specialized lenses when I want minimum DOF and maximum blur. Both of them are fantastic, tons of flavor and character.
This hasn't stopped me from sizing up all manner of luxes that hit the forum, but that's just gear lust.
Adam
This hasn't stopped me from sizing up all manner of luxes that hit the forum, but that's just gear lust.
Adam
Sep 02, 2026 at 05:43 PM
p.1 #12Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
The Nokton 50 1.2 is biggest bang for a buck. It is a really great all rounder 1.2. It lacks that vintage character of the Leica 1.2 or LLL 1966, or the Leica F1, and it is not the Noct 0.95 of leica. It is far better than the F1 Nokton at being normal all rounder giving up a tiny bit of F. It is a 50 you can leave on your camera, use it wide or stop it down, and if you shoot film sometimes just add in some NDs. Read Fred's test it is a goody at its price point. It also is not too big, not tiny of course, but it is not a weighty noct lens and not tiring to just leave on the M. I prefer to match it to a 28 F1.4 Nokton to have a bigger jump from 50 than 35, a lens also on Fred's test list with high marks. It also is not excessively heavy in fact it is remarkably light for what it is. Voigtlander hit it out of the park with their Noktons for M, price v performance.
Sep 02, 2026 at 06:02 PM
p.1 #13Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
It sounds like your current lenses are doing just fine. You already describe the 35 Summicron as basically perfect, and the Color-Skopars have been your workhorses.
Unless you have a specific use case that makes it clear why you need the extra stop, I'd say save the money. If you do decide to add something, I'd recommend a lens with floating elements (FLE) for more consistent optical performance across different working distances.
Unless you have a specific use case that makes it clear why you need the extra stop, I'd say save the money. If you do decide to add something, I'd recommend a lens with floating elements (FLE) for more consistent optical performance across different working distances.
Sep 03, 2026 at 03:40 PM
p.1 #14Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
The 50mm Summilux ASPH could be the last 50 you will ever need or buy. It's that good. The v1 (without close focusing) is now pretty reasonably priced. It's my desert island lens!
The 35mm FLE is right up there too but probably redundant given that you already have the Summicron.
If cost is a concern, I'd actually look into one of the Chinese options. The Thypoch Simera line gives you sharp, cinematic rendering lenses in F1.4 across all main focal lengths. If not Chinese, then Voigtlander Nokton 1.5s are also pretty sharp & high performing in small packages.
The 35mm FLE is right up there too but probably redundant given that you already have the Summicron.
If cost is a concern, I'd actually look into one of the Chinese options. The Thypoch Simera line gives you sharp, cinematic rendering lenses in F1.4 across all main focal lengths. If not Chinese, then Voigtlander Nokton 1.5s are also pretty sharp & high performing in small packages.
Sep 18, 2026 at 06:39 PM
p.1 #15Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
50 Lux asph-
Cheapest one you can get your hands on- IMO Leica’s best lens they ever made.
I prefer the CF version but it wasn’t worth the upgrade cost. If I had it to do over again, I keep the 50 asph v1 but it’s to late 😃
Cheapest one you can get your hands on- IMO Leica’s best lens they ever made.
I prefer the CF version but it wasn’t worth the upgrade cost. If I had it to do over again, I keep the 50 asph v1 but it’s to late 😃
Sep 18, 2026 at 08:10 PM
p.1 #16Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
cary.z wrote:
The 50mm Summilux ASPH could be the last 50 you will ever need or buy. It's that good. The v1 (without close focusing) is now pretty reasonably priced. It's my desert island lens!
The 35mm FLE is right up there too but probably redundant given that you already have the Summicron.
If cost is a concern, I'd actually look into one of the Chinese options. The Thypoch Simera line gives you sharp, cinematic rendering lenses in F1.4 across all main focal lengths. If not Chinese, then Voigtlander Nokton 1.5s are also pretty sharp & high performing in small packages.
I agree with you on the Thypoch lenses minus the “cinematic” rendering 😃
Very similar to the 50 lux from what I have seen-
The 50mm Summilux ASPH could be the last 50 you will ever need or buy. It's that good. The v1 (without close focusing) is now pretty reasonably priced. It's my desert island lens!
The 35mm FLE is right up there too but probably redundant given that you already have the Summicron.
If cost is a concern, I'd actually look into one of the Chinese options. The Thypoch Simera line gives you sharp, cinematic rendering lenses in F1.4 across all main focal lengths. If not Chinese, then Voigtlander Nokton 1.5s are also pretty sharp & high performing in small packages.
I agree with you on the Thypoch lenses minus the “cinematic” rendering 😃
Very similar to the 50 lux from what I have seen-
Sep 18, 2026 at 08:15 PM
p.1 #17Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
EMH2025 wrote:
The Nokton 50 1.2 is biggest bang for a buck. It is a really great all rounder 1.2. It lacks that vintage character of the Leica 1.2 or LLL 1966, or the Leica F1, and it is not the Noct 0.95 of leica. It is far better than the F1 Nokton at being normal all rounder giving up a tiny bit of F. It is a 50 you can leave on your camera, use it wide or stop it down, and if you shoot film sometimes just add in some NDs. Read Fred's test it is a goody at its...Show more →
This. The Nokton 50/1.2 is phenomenal. It has a wonderful look, is not too large but gives you extra light. I say that as someone who used to own the 50 Lux ASPH and have tried the Noctilux 50/1.0 III. The 35/1.2 looks like it might give more of the same, but my 35-space is crowded at the moment, so I haven't picked it up yet.
The Nokton 50 1.2 is biggest bang for a buck. It is a really great all rounder 1.2. It lacks that vintage character of the Leica 1.2 or LLL 1966, or the Leica F1, and it is not the Noct 0.95 of leica. It is far better than the F1 Nokton at being normal all rounder giving up a tiny bit of F. It is a 50 you can leave on your camera, use it wide or stop it down, and if you shoot film sometimes just add in some NDs. Read Fred's test it is a goody at its...Show more →
This. The Nokton 50/1.2 is phenomenal. It has a wonderful look, is not too large but gives you extra light. I say that as someone who used to own the 50 Lux ASPH and have tried the Noctilux 50/1.0 III. The 35/1.2 looks like it might give more of the same, but my 35-space is crowded at the moment, so I haven't picked it up yet.
Sep 19, 2026 at 02:04 AM
p.1 #18Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
carstenw wrote:
The Nokton 50/1.2 is phenomenal. It has a wonderful look, is not too large but gives you extra light. I say that as someone who used to own the 50 Lux ASPH
I could not agree more. I had both the 50mm/1.4 ASPH, excellent lens and the Voigt 50/1.2.
The Voigt was better. Slightly bigger...
The problem was as usual the rangefinder coupling: Voigt lenses often exhibit front or back-focus. I can sometimes fix it, sometimes it is more complicated.
Anyhow, I sold the Leica. But of course, if as stated above, you want to keep it for the rest of your life, you will be very happy with it.
Nowadays, I use the Voigt 50mm/1.5 (and the 2.2) and I stopped caring about a lot of things about lenses except for bokeh and ergonomics.
The differences are invisible on prints and on screen except at 100% especially after PP in Topaz Studio & co.
The Nokton 50/1.2 is phenomenal. It has a wonderful look, is not too large but gives you extra light. I say that as someone who used to own the 50 Lux ASPH
I could not agree more. I had both the 50mm/1.4 ASPH, excellent lens and the Voigt 50/1.2.
The Voigt was better. Slightly bigger...
The problem was as usual the rangefinder coupling: Voigt lenses often exhibit front or back-focus. I can sometimes fix it, sometimes it is more complicated.
Anyhow, I sold the Leica. But of course, if as stated above, you want to keep it for the rest of your life, you will be very happy with it.
Nowadays, I use the Voigt 50mm/1.5 (and the 2.2) and I stopped caring about a lot of things about lenses except for bokeh and ergonomics.
The differences are invisible on prints and on screen except at 100% especially after PP in Topaz Studio & co.
Sep 19, 2026 at 02:31 AM
p.1 #19Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
patashnik wrote:
I'm looking for a fast M-mount lens in the f/1.0-f/1.4 range, somewhere between 35mm and 50mm.
For reference, I already own a 35mm Summicron-M ASPH (v2), and it is basically perfect. It's as sharp as I could ever need, has great handling, and I have no complaints about its rendering at all. It's basically the extra stop (or two) I'm seeking.
I've been considering the first-generation 35mm Summilux-M ASPH FLE, but I'm wondering if it might be too similar to my Summicron. Since I already have what I consider the ideal 35mm lens, perhaps it would make more sense to buy something...Show more →
I have the 35 Cron ASPH ... and the VM 50/1.5 II Vintage. The VM 40/1.2 calls to me sometimes. The primary difference (besides FL and Aperture scale) is the 40/1.2 uses multiple double sided ASPH element, so it renders more "clincal", whereas the "Vintage" series 50/1.5 II only uses one double sided ASPH element, so it is off the pace a kiss when shot WO, but imo, it doesn't have "wonky" character like some "character" lenses do.
That said, if you want to retain the level of correction when shooting wide open that is unparalleled, then some other lenses fit that bill. Imo, the VM 50/1.5 II splits the diff between "glowy" vintage / Mandler era style and more modern, uber corrected lenses (intentionally landing by Voigt). I have mine paired with a recent VM 3.5 APO, but I would think it to pair nicely with your little VM 2.2 when you want something faster. I wouldn't call it a character lens, just a gentler rendering, than say the VM 50/1.2.
For me, I'm not replacing my 35 Cron ASPH with a Lux, just yet. 40/1.2 could be what your looking for to get an extra stop, or so. Plenty of folks love that lens, likely for good reason. But, that 35 FLE variants are pretty dang good, for a reason, too.
I'm looking for a fast M-mount lens in the f/1.0-f/1.4 range, somewhere between 35mm and 50mm.
For reference, I already own a 35mm Summicron-M ASPH (v2), and it is basically perfect. It's as sharp as I could ever need, has great handling, and I have no complaints about its rendering at all. It's basically the extra stop (or two) I'm seeking.
I've been considering the first-generation 35mm Summilux-M ASPH FLE, but I'm wondering if it might be too similar to my Summicron. Since I already have what I consider the ideal 35mm lens, perhaps it would make more sense to buy something...Show more →
I have the 35 Cron ASPH ... and the VM 50/1.5 II Vintage. The VM 40/1.2 calls to me sometimes. The primary difference (besides FL and Aperture scale) is the 40/1.2 uses multiple double sided ASPH element, so it renders more "clincal", whereas the "Vintage" series 50/1.5 II only uses one double sided ASPH element, so it is off the pace a kiss when shot WO, but imo, it doesn't have "wonky" character like some "character" lenses do.
That said, if you want to retain the level of correction when shooting wide open that is unparalleled, then some other lenses fit that bill. Imo, the VM 50/1.5 II splits the diff between "glowy" vintage / Mandler era style and more modern, uber corrected lenses (intentionally landing by Voigt). I have mine paired with a recent VM 3.5 APO, but I would think it to pair nicely with your little VM 2.2 when you want something faster. I wouldn't call it a character lens, just a gentler rendering, than say the VM 50/1.2.
For me, I'm not replacing my 35 Cron ASPH with a Lux, just yet. 40/1.2 could be what your looking for to get an extra stop, or so. Plenty of folks love that lens, likely for good reason. But, that 35 FLE variants are pretty dang good, for a reason, too.
Sep 19, 2026 at 01:16 PM
p.1 #20Fast lens for Leica M11 in the 35-50mm range
Which Cron do you own? And what is it that you like?
Sep 19, 2026 at 03:38 PM