Leica Summarit-M 75mm F2.4 ASPH

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Leica Summarit-M 75mm F2.4 ASPH is a remarkable prime lens that has become a noteworthy choice for photographers seeking quality glass for their Leica M cameras. At 75mm, it offers a sweet spot for portraiture and street photography, striking a balance between compression and background separation that's hard to match.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Summarit-M is exceptional, as one would expect from Leica. The lens body is made of metal and exudes a sense of durability and elegance. It features a compact design, with a length of just 82mm and a weight of around 440g. This lightweight construction makes it an ideal companion for a day of shooting, allowing you to retain a level of portability that larger lenses can’t always provide. The lens comes with an attractive matte black finish that complements Leica's aesthetic beautifully, and the engraved focus and aperture markings are clear and easy to read, even under low light.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Summarit-M 75mm F2.4 ASPH delivers sharpness and contrast that truly impresses. Wide open at f/2.4, you'll find that the lens produces beautifully defined images with a pleasing bokeh that enhances subjects without being distracting. The ASPH (aspherical) element helps to combat aberrations, ensuring that image quality remains high across the frame. There is minimal distortion and chromatic aberration, making it a reliable choice for any shooting scenario.

Usability

Focusing with the Summarit-M is an enjoyable experience, thanks to the smooth and precise manual focus mechanism. The focus throw is generous enough to allow for fine adjustments, while also being fast and responsive when needed. However, being a manual focus lens, it may take some time for photographers accustomed to autofocus systems to adapt. Additionally, the lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.9 meters, providing reasonable versatility for portrait and detail shots.

Compatibility

This lens is designed specifically for Leica M mount cameras, meaning that it pairs excellently with the entire lineup of Leica M systems. Its focal length is perfectly suited for portrait photography, as well as for capturing candid street moments, providing enough reach without overwhelming the scene.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality and elegant design
• Sharp images with excellent contrast
• Beautiful bokeh characteristics
• Smooth manual focus mechanism
• Compact and lightweight

Cons

• Manual focus only, which may be challenging for some
• The price point may be considered high for some users
• Minimum focusing distance of 0.9 meters might limit close-up opportunities

Verdict

In conclusion, the Leica Summarit-M 75mm F2.4 ASPH is a fantastic lens that combines superb optical performance and outstanding build quality. It’s a great choice for photographers who appreciate the art of manual focusing and want a lens that delivers stunning images with character. While it may not suit everyone's taste due to its manual focus and premium price, those who take the plunge will find themselves rewarded with captivating results that define the essence of Leica craftsmanship.