How long s it since Leica released an original design for the SL system?
Gordon
Two years ago, Leica released an original design for the SL system with the Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm f/2. Since then, any new SL lenses have been based on non-Leica designs in Leica barrels.
The existing set of Leica designed and manufactured APO-SL lenses are probably the best opticaly, build quality, and weather sealed lenses ever produced for a Full Frame camera system. The currently available set is comprehensive covering pretty much all focal lengths this type of lens is used for. They are optcaly capable for resolutions much much higher than are likely possible for some time to come. I don't think Leica can realistically improve on these meaningfully except in AF motors and software. So, little point in making new versions.
On the zoom side of things the situation is much different. The original zoom lenses were opticaly excellent. But form factor makes them a difficult choice for many including me. Leica's reliance on expensive versions of third party designed and manufactured zoom lenses is honestly a bit disappointing for me. I don't feel that they offer a value over just buying the third party options. Now that the AF in the SL line has improved to a meaningful useful level I think the SL system would benefit from a new set of true Leica zooms. I shoot Leica because I want a full Leica experience and image quality. I am not fully satisfied with third party lenses no matter the logo on the barrel.
The speed and accuracy the new SL AF capabilities also provides opportunity for some new primes. I would like to see some really fast, uniquely character rich primes for the SL system from Leica. Leica knows how to do this as they have shown with decades of M lenses.
I think Leica's latest efforts in the cinema lenses shows that SL video glass will be well served.
How long s it since Leica released an original design for the SL system?
Gordon
Two years ago, Leica released an original design for the SL system with the Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm f/2. Since then, any new SL lenses have been based on non-Leica designs in Leica barrels.
The existing set of Leica designed and manufactured APO-SL lenses are probably the best opticaly, build quality, and weather sealed lenses ever produced for a Full Frame camera system. The currently available set is comprehensive covering pretty much all focal lengths this type of lens is used for. They are optcaly capable for resolutions much much higher than are likely possible for some time to come. I don't think Leica can realistically improve on these meaningfully except in AF motors and software. So, little point in making new versions.
On the zoom side of things the situation is much different. The original zoom lensescwere opticaly excellent. But form factor makes them a difficult choice for many including me. Leica's reliance on expensive versions of third party designed and manufactured zoom lenses is honestly a bit disappointing for me. I don't feel that they offer a value over just buying the third party options. Now that the AF in the SL line has improved to a meaningful useful level I think the SL system would benefit from a new set of true Leica zooms. I shoot Leica because zi want to shoot Leica. I am not fully satisfied with third party lenses no matter the logo on the barrel.
The speed and accuracy the new SL AF capabilities also provides opportunity for some new primes. I would like to see some really fast, uniquely character rich primes for the SL system from Leica. Leica knows how to do this as they have shown with decades of M lenses.
I think Leica's latest efforts in the cinema lenses shows that SL video glass will be well served.
Jan 14, 2026 at 06:07 PM
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