Photo Corners headlinesarchivemikepasini.com
A S C R A P B O O K O F S O L U T I O N S F O R T H E P H O T O G R A P H E R
Enhancing the enjoyment of taking pictures with news that matters, features that entertain and images that delight. Published frequently.
Leica Announces Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH.
28 January 2021
Leica has announced the Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH., a reissue of its classic aspherical lens retaining the visual characteristics of the original.
Produced from 1966 to 1975, the original Noctilux 50 f1.2 was the first lens to feature aspherical elements. Its f1.2 aperture further contributed to the Noctilux's legendary status, as did its unique image aesthetic, which embodies "the original essence of the Leica look."
These visual characteristics have been retained in the new Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH., whose calculation and construction adhere so closely to the original that the imaging results are nearly identical, the company said.
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights of the Noctilux include:
- Leica M-Mount Lens
- Aperture Range: f1.2 to f16
- Two aspherical surfaces
- Minimum focus distance: 3.3 feet
- 16 aperture blades
- Included lens hood
- Filter thread: 49mm
- Original release inspired packaging
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications for the prime lens include:
LECIA NOCTILUX-M 50 f1.2 ASPH LENS SPECIFICATIONS Mount Leica M Focal Length 50mm Aperture f1.2 to f15
16 diaphragm bladesAngle of View 45.6° Minimum Focus 3.3 feet Optical Design 6 elements in 4 groups
Two aspherical elementsAutofocus No Image Stabilization No Filter Thread 49mm Dimensions 2.4 x 2.0 inches Weight 14.39 oz. PRICE, AVAILABILITY
The black anodized version is now available now for $7,695. The special edition silver chrome variant, exclusive to Leica Stores only, is limited to 100 units worldwide for $16,395. Adorama and B&H are now accepting orders.
For more information see the news release below.
Return of a Landmark Lens: The Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH. Becomes Part of Leica's Classics Range
The historic lens delivers sharp images that blend vintage dreamlike bokeh with modern-day digital photography
With the launch of the Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH., Leica exemplifies its commitment to honor legacy with the reissue of a beloved classic. Produced from 1966 to 1975, the original Noctilux 50 f1.2 was the world's first lens to feature aspherical elements. Its light sensitivity -- immense even by today's standards -- further contributed to the Noctilux's legendary status, as did its unique image aesthetic. Its visual signature embodies the original essence of the "Leica look" and has helped shape the landscape of Leica's iconic reputation for the best lenses. Photos captured at open aperture are imbued with a soft, almost dreamlike quality -- creating an unmistakable look with an exquisite bokeh.
These unmatched visual characteristics have been carefully retained in the new Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH., whose calculation and construction adheres so closely to the original that the imaging results are nearly identical. While the original was created over fifty years ago, the purpose of this lens is by no means limited to nostalgia or trips down memory lane. Once stopped down to f2.8 or further, the Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH. delivers impeccably sharp images that live up to the quality expectations of modern-day digital photography. The classic lens also sets itself apart from its contemporary successors as the most compact and lightweight Noctilux in Leica's portfolio.
The color options of the new lens also pay homage to Leica's optical history, where the original Noctilux 50 f1.2 marked the start of the company's transition to from silver to black-anodized lenses. Prior to releasing the legendary lens, Leica produced around five prototypes in a silver finish. Those prototypes are currently among the most coveted and highly priced M lenses in existence. The original serial production run of black-finish Noctilux 50 f1.2 lenses, 1,757 units in total, continue to reign as highly sought-after collector's item in today's lens market. Hearkening back to this heritage, the new Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH. will be available in two variants: a black anodized serial production model and an exclusive special edition silver chrome model.
The black anodized version of the new Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH. features an aluminum lens barrel and is accompanied by packaging inspired by the box of the original, further complemented by the same lens container provided with the original Noctilux 50 f1.2. This black anodized version is now available through Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers and priced at $7,695. The special edition silver chrome variant, exclusive to Leica Stores only, is limited to 100 units worldwide and offered at a price of $16,395. This special edition model features a brass lens barrel, a front-ring engraving that reads LEITZ WETZLAR (distinguished from the contemporary Leica engraving) and along with the clear lens container is packaged in a vintage-inspired box that even further recreates the 1966 original.
The Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH. is the third lens to be added to the Leica Classics Range, following the previous reissues of the Summaron-M 28 f5.6 of 1955 and the Thambar-M 90 f2.2 of 1935.