Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 58mm f/1.9 II

Canon RF

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 58mm f/1.9 II is a fascinating lens that has been gaining attention among Canon RF mount users. This classic lens is a modern revival of the original Primoplan, bringing with it heritage, character, and a unique optical design that makes it stand out in a crowded market.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Primoplan 58mm f/1.9 II is its exquisite build quality. Crafted with a mix of metal and high-grade glass, this lens exudes a sense of durability and luxury. The smooth focusing ring provides a tactile feel that is satisfying, ensuring precise adjustments while shooting. Weighing in at a moderate 600 grams, it strikes a nice balance, making it portable enough for daily use without feeling too lightweight or flimsy.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Primoplan offers a unique rendering style that appeals to portrait and artistic photographers. With its maximum aperture of f/1.9, it can achieve beautifully shallow depth of field effects. The bokeh produced is creamy and pleasing, often described as “dreamy,” which is one of the lens's standout features. It does produce some noticeable vignetting at wide open apertures, but this can add to the artistic flair of your photos, especially in portrait work.

The lens sharpness is impressive, especially when stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6, where the images become incredibly sharp across the frame. However, at f/1.9, while the subject is sharp, some may find that corners of the image exhibit less sharpness. The color rendition is also notable, with vibrant yet natural-looking colors that make your images pop without appearing oversaturated.

Versatility and Use Cases

With its 58mm focal length, this lens is versatile enough for a variety of photography types, including street photography, portraiture, and environmental shots. However, it’s worth noting that the lens’s unique rendering character may not suit everyone’s taste. Some may prefer a more clinical, modern look over the vintage aesthetic offered by the Primoplan.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stunning bokeh with a unique and dreamy quality.
• Excellent build quality and tactile feel.
• Good sharpness when stopped down.
• Versatile focal length for various photography styles.

Cons

• Noticeable vignetting at wide apertures.
• Corners may lack sharpness when shooting wide open.
• The vintage character may not appeal to all photographers.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 58mm f/1.9 II is a lens that excels in creative photography, especially for those who appreciate a vintage touch and beautiful bokeh. Its build quality and optical performance make it a solid choice for Canon RF users looking to add a unique lens to their collection. While it does have its limitations, especially in sharpness at wider apertures, the charm and character of the Primoplan make it a worthwhile investment for artists who enjoy the art of storytelling through their photographs.