The Leica Super-Elmar-M 1:3.4/21mm ASPH Lens is a practical choice for Leica M cameras, including the analog M cameras, all the way back to 1954. With firmware updates, this Super-Elmar provides optimal use for today's host of digital M's as well, including the M8 and M9 bodies. With a super wide-angle view of 21mm, and an aperture range of f/3.4-16, this lens provides stunning images with the kind of quality that's expected of a Leica. Distortion, vignetting, and chromatic aberration have all been reduced to a minimum in this lens, and flare resistance, along with the included metal hood, allow for image capture, even under extreme backlight conditions.
| Angle of View | 35mm format (24 x 36mm): 91°, 80°, 59° Leica M8 models (18 x 27mm): 74°, 64°, 46° Focal length equivalent: approx. 28mm |
| Optical Design | 8 elements in 7 groups, 2 aspherical surfaces |
| Working Range | 2.3' / 0.7m to infinity |
| Reproduction Ratio | 1:29.4 |
| Aperture | f/3.4-16 with half-stop detents |
| Mount | Leica M bayonet with 6-bit bar-coding |
| Filter Mount | 46 mm |
| Miscellaneous | Scales: Combined meter/feet graduation Smallest object field: 706 x 1059mm (35mm format); 530 x 795mm (for M8) |
| Dimensions | Length to bayonet flange: 43/55mm (1.69/2.17") With/without lens hood Diameter: 53mm (2.09") |
| Weight | 9.84 oz (279g) |
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Comments about Leica 21mm Super-Elmar-M f/ 3.4 ASPH Lens:
This is an amazingly crisp lens, with minimal distortion and still extremely compact. I would certainly not call it inexpensive, but I am still surprised that Leica did not price it for an extra as most folks would have still purchased it.
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Comments about Leica 21mm Super-Elmar-M f/ 3.4 ASPH Lens:
Simply put, this might be the best super-wide lens in 35mm format. Very low distortion, flare free, and extremely sharp. In fact, this is perhaps the highest resolving Leica lens I have ever used. Very well made, smooth and well dampened focus. Screw on hood is much better than the older style clip-on hoods. It's expensive for a "slower" lens, but there is no need to stop down for sharpness; it's as good as it gets at F/3.4. Beautiful lens with a lot of character as well. I am very fortunate to own this masterpiece. I purchased it from B&H. No doubt it will become a legend in the Leica world. Thanks B&H......
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Comments about Leica 21mm Super-Elmar-M f/ 3.4 ASPH Lens:
I've used a lot of 35mm lenses to include Leica and Nikon. This is perhaps the sharpest lens I have ever seen or used. Not that being sharp is the most important factor, but trust me on this one. Amazing flare control, and the most controlled distortion I've seen in a 21mm lens in 35mm format. Its amazing how very little distortion this lens has for a super wide angle. Contrast is spectacular. Its brilliant at shooting into the sun for nice sunstar effects (18 pointed sunstar) which is what I want in a super wide. Build quality is superb and the new screw on hood is much better than the older style clip in hoods. Ergonomics are perfect i.e., size, aperture placement, tabbed focus ring. Simply one of Leica's best lenses in my opinion and one that will easily become a legend.
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