Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?

Jorge Torralba
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p.1 #1 · Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?

We know that the noctilux is praised for its bokeh rendering and advantage to work in low light situations. But is the 1.2 or 1.0 Bokeh over stated ?

These images are from a 1.4 Summilux NON Asph and I think the bokeh is hard to beat.

If you want to see larger versions, just remove the med_ from the url

Sep 16, 2026 at 04:28 PM

retrofocus
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p.1 #2 · Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?

Which version of the Leica 50/1.4 pre-ASPH do you actually have? Version 2 or 3? I am using version 2 and made similar experience as you described compared to faster f/1.2 stop. So yes, for my personal taste the Noctilux is overrated. I prefer the more compact 50/1.4 very similar in background blur with some vintage punch to it over a Noctilux lens.

Sep 16, 2026 at 04:49 PM

Jorge Torralba
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p.1 #3 · Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?

the above are from the classic re-issue model 11713 or 11714. In my case 11713 the glossy black version.

By the way , the glossy black one is discontinued. If you can find one grab it before its gone. Very short run it had. less than a year.

Sep 16, 2026 at 04:51 PM

gammarART
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p.1 #4 · Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?

The bokeh, especially in the portrait, is absolutely gorgeous. And the in-focus areas are still so crisp and contrasty (or did you help that along a bit in post?).

I’m honestly really impressed. If the 11714 doesn’t produce ninja stars in the bokeh either, I’m seriously getting tempted 😄

Sep 16, 2026 at 11:10 PM


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