j.liam wrote:
carstenw wrote
I just picked up a Summilux-R 35mm f/1.4 adapted for Nikon, and am still testing it out. Did you do the "surgery"? Frighteningly close shave, down within 2mm or so of the rear element. Haven't seen much written about that lens; is its performance characteristics similar to the 80 Summilux (soft, glowing at 1.4 & razor sharp stopped down)?
A friend of mine in Russia did the filing. The rear element is flat, so if you are careful, there is no problem. Of course, it is better to let someone experienced do it, like him. Actually, I got to know him because he does these lens modifications. I invited him to this forum, and he occasionally posts here (worldinlens).
The lens has a reputation for being like the 80 Lux, soft and glowing wide open. I am not sure why. I owned the 80 Lux, and it is not sooo soft and glowing wide open, but yes, it does have some. The 35 Lux is very sharp over maybe 2/3 of the field wide open, with only a touch of glow. The CA is also generally well controlled, although as seen, you can provoke it.
I will post more in the coming days, under more controlled conditions too, so you can see how it is.
Btw, the 35 Lux is brilliant for background boke circles, in case you are into that. Beautiful results. Aleksandr might post some, I just send him a link to this thread.