Artra Lab Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 (1980s)

Leica L-Mount

Review

The Artra Lab Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4, a product of the 1980s, is a remarkable lens that has drawn attention for its unique characteristics and performance, especially within the Leica L mount community. Renowned for its sharpness and bokeh, this lens is an excellent choice for both street photography and portraiture, making it quite versatile for various photographic needs.

Build Quality and Design

One of the standout features of the Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 is its robust build quality. Crafted with metal housing, this lens exudes a sense of durability that many modern plastic lenses lack. The focus ring operates smoothly, providing tactile feedback, allowing for precise manual focusing. Weighing in at a bit more than some of its counterparts, this lens can feel substantial in hand, which photographers may either love or find a bit cumbersome during extended shoots. The classic aesthetic it brings can easily complement the vintage charm of Leica cameras.

Image Quality

The image quality offered by this lens is nothing short of impressive. The wide f/1.4 aperture allows for fantastic low-light performance, along with a shallow depth of field that results in beautiful background blur. This becomes especially apparent when shooting portraits or isolated subjects against a blurred backdrop. At f/2.8 and stopping down, sharpness reaches its peak, rivaling many contemporary lenses. However, it is worth noting that at wider apertures, some barrel distortion and vignetting can be observed, but many photographers find this characteristic adds to the lens's charm rather than detracts from it.

Usability

When it comes to usability, the Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 shines in various shooting scenarios. Its focal length makes it perfect for street photography and environmental portraits, allowing for a field of view that captures just the right amount of context without interfering with the subject. However, the lack of autofocus can be a disadvantage for those used to quick captures or working in fast-paced situations. Manual focusing, while rewarding for skilled photographers, may deter those who prefer the speed and efficiency of autofocus systems.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a classic metal design
• Exceptional image quality with beautiful bokeh
• Great low-light performance due to wide f/1.4 aperture
• Versatile focal length suitable for various photography styles

Cons

• Some barrel distortion and vignetting at wider apertures
• Heavy compared to modern plastic lenses
• Manual focus only, which may not appeal to everyone

Verdict

The Artra Lab Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 is a lens that brings forward a unique blend of vintage charm and impressive optical performance. While it may not be for everyone due to its manual focus and noticeable optical quirks, it appeals to photographers who appreciate craftsmanship and the nuances of manual control. If you're a Leica L mount user in search of a fast, reliable, and visually charming lens, the Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 is worth considering for your next project.