Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 100mm f/2.8 II

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 100mm f/2.8 II is a fascinating lens that harks back to the classic designs while offering a unique shooting experience. With its striking bokeh and retro aesthetic, this lens has captured the hearts of many photographers, especially those who own Leica M-mount systems.

Design and Build Quality

The Trioplan 100mm f/2.8 II showcases an exquisite build quality featuring quality metal construction and a beautifully engraved focus ring. Its compact size makes it a great companion for the lightweight Leica M bodies, maintaining a classic feel. The design is unmistakably vintage, which adds character to any camera setup. However, this does come at the cost of modern conveniences such as autofocus and electronic aperture control, a trade-off that some users may find challenging.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan provides a soft yet crisp image quality that can be incredibly appealing for portraiture and artistic photography. The lens is known for its iconic "soap bubble" bokeh, which creates a pleasing blur in the background, making subjects pop out in a whimsical way. When shooting wide open at f/2.8, there's often a beautiful sharpness in the center, but the corners may show some softness, which can be desired in certain artistic applications. Stopping down improves overall sharpness, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios.

Handling and Usability

Using the Trioplan on a Leica M camera requires an adjustment to manual focus, which can be a double-edged sword. While many veteran photographers cherish the tactile feedback and art of focusing manually, newer users might find this less convenient in fast-paced shooting environments. The focus throw is smooth but requires practice to perfect. Additionally, the lack of image stabilization means that slower shutter speeds can lead to motion blur if not used carefully.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Beautifully crafted with a classic design.
• Unique "soap bubble" bokeh that enhances portraits and artistic shots.
• Excellent color rendition and contrast.
• Lightweight and compact, suitable for travel and street photography.

Cons

• Manual focus only, which can be challenging for some users.
• Soft corners wide open, which may require stopping down for optimal sharpness.
• No weather sealing, making it less robust in adverse conditions.

Verdict

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 100mm f/2.8 II is a stunning lens that appeals to photographers seeking unique optical characteristics and a vintage feel. While its manual focus and soft edges might not suit everyone, it shines in its ability to create dreamy, character-rich images. If you're keen on exploring the artistic side of photography with a lens that stands out, the Trioplan 100mm is undoubtedly worth considering.