Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 2/85 ZM

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 2/85 ZM is a remarkable lens specifically designed for the Leica M mount, and it showcases the classic characteristics of Sonnar lenses that have made them beloved by photographers for generations. With its slightly longer focal length of 85mm and fast f/2 aperture, this lens is particularly suited for portrait photography as well as capturing detailed images in low light conditions.

Build quality is nothing short of exceptional. The all-metal construction provides a sense of durability and heft, making it a pleasure to handle. The lens also features a beautifully textured focus ring that allows for smooth focusing adjustments, even when working with shallow depth of field. The T* coating helps to minimize flare and enhances contrast, providing images that are rich in color and detail.

One of the striking features of the Sonnar T* 2/85 ZM is its ability to render out-of-focus areas exceptionally well. The bokeh produced by this lens is creamy and soft, which beautifully accentuates the subject while providing a pleasing separation from the background. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for portrait photographers looking to create a dreamy, intimate feel in their images.

However, the lens does come with some drawbacks. While it excels in many areas, it can exhibit some noticeable vignetting, particularly wide open at f/2. This might not be a concern for all photographers, especially those who value the aesthetic of a darker vignette, but it is worth considering for those shooting in contrast-rich environments. Additionally, as is common with many vintage-inspired lenses, the Sonnar may not have the level of sharpness at the extreme edges of the frame that some modern lenses provide, particularly when wide open.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality and design
• Smooth focusing and handling experience
• Beautiful bokeh and out-of-focus rendering
• Rich color rendition and contrast thanks to T* coating

Cons

• Noticeable vignetting at wide open f/2
• Sharpness can drop off in the corners at wider apertures

Verdict

Overall, the Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 2/85 ZM is an outstanding choice for photographers, especially those who shoot portraits and appreciate the nuances of character and rendering in their images. Its strong build quality and exceptional optical performance make it a great addition to any Leica M photographer's kit. While it does have a few quirks such as vignetting and edge sharpness, the lens far outweighs its limitations with the stunning images it can produce. If you're looking to capture beautiful portraits with a classic touch, this lens is definitely worth considering.