7Artisans x Seagull M 35mm F1.7

The 7Artisans x Seagull M 35mm F1.7 is a manual-focus 35mm prime for Leica M rangefinder cameras and mirrorless bodies with an M adapter. It is a collaboration between 7Artisans and Seagull, a Chinese camera brand with a history going back to the Shanghai Camera Factory. According to the seller, it is Seagull's first large-aperture manual-focus lens since the brand's revival, and it is released as a limited edition in silver with an exclusive badge and an individual serial number.

Optical design

The lens has eight elements in six groups. The 10-blade aperture runs from f/1.7 to f/16, and the angle of view is 64 degrees. The minimum focusing distance is 0.7 m, and the lens supports rangefinder-coupled focusing so that the subject can be aligned in the viewfinder's split-image patch. The front takes 40.5 mm filters. 7Artisans says the 10 blades are meant to render smooth bokeh.

Focusing and handling

Focusing is manual and coupled to the rangefinder. An integrated crescent-shaped focusing tab is designed for single-finger focusing, and the aperture ring has click stops. There is no autofocus and no stabilizer. A round lens hood with a matte, threaded interior is included, which 7Artisans describes as absorbing stray light and softening harsh contrast.

Build and size

The lens is made entirely of metal with an anodized finish. It weighs about 145 g and measures roughly 57 mm in diameter and 36 mm in length. The finish is silver.

Where it fits

Fast 35mm lenses for Leica M in this database include the Voigtlander 35mm F1.4 Nokton VM II, the Voigtlander 35mm F1.2 Nokton VM III, the Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH and the Thypoch Simera 35mm F1.4. At f/1.7 the Seagull sits just below those in aperture. From the same maker, the 7Artisans M 35mm F2.8 is a smaller and lighter 35mm, and the 7artisans 50mm F1.1 is a faster 50mm for Leica M.

Pros and cons

Pros

• f/1.7 aperture with 10 aperture blades on a compact 35mm
• Rangefinder-coupled focusing with a focusing tab
• All-metal construction, round hood included
• Limited edition with serial number and badge

Cons

• Limited release, so availability is restricted
• Manual focus only
• About 145 g and f/1.7, so slightly heavier than the f/2.8 model from the same maker

Verdict

The 7Artisans x Seagull M 35mm F1.7 is a collectible, bright 35mm for rangefinder shooters who like classic styling. It will mostly appeal to Leica M users who want a limited-edition lens with a distinct story, while those who simply need a fast 35mm have several established alternatives in the same mount.