Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II is a unique lens that combines vintage aesthetics with modern capabilities, making it an interesting choice for photographers looking to add character to their images. This lens is designed for the Leica M mount, and it embraces the classic styles that Meyer-Optik is known for, making it a compelling option for portrait and street photography enthusiasts.

Build and Design

The Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II features an all-metal body with a smooth focus ring that provides a tactile feel and precise control during operation. The build quality exudes a sense of durability and power, ensuring that it can withstand the demands of regular use. The lens has a compact design, making it relatively lightweight for a portrait lens, which is a significant advantage for street photographers who need mobility on the go.

Optical Performance

One of the most appealing aspects of this lens is its unique optical design, which allows for a dreamy bokeh that can elevate portrait photography to new heights. The f/1.9 aperture creates a shallow depth of field, resulting in beautifully blurred backgrounds that make your subjects stand out. Additionally, the center sharpness is commendable, with nice detail retention, making it suitable for capturing intricate details in portraits.

However, the lens does exhibit some softness wide open, and while this can be an artistic choice, it may not suit every photographer's needs. When stopped down to f/2.8 and beyond, sharpness improves significantly, providing a more reliable option for those who prioritize detail.

Color and Contrast

Colors produced by the Primoplan are rich and vibrant, maintaining a natural aesthetic that is pleasing to the eye. The lens also handles contrast quite well, allowing for deep shadows and well-defined highlights, which are essential for impactful images. The unique character of the lens can result in leans towards a vintage feel, lending a nostalgic atmosphere to photographs that some photographers may find delightful.

Flare and Aberration

As with many vintage-inspired lenses, the Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II can be prone to chromatic aberration, especially when shooting with strong light sources in the frame. Ghosting and flare can also occur, particularly wide open. While these traits can add to the lens's character, they may distract from the overall image quality if not managed properly.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unique and aesthetically pleasing bokeh
• Excellent color rendition and contrast
• Solid build quality with a compact design
• Tactile focus ring for precision control

Cons

• Softness at f/1.9, requiring stopping down for improved sharpness
• Prone to chromatic aberration and flare
• May not be suitable for all types of photography, particularly those needing critical sharpness at wide apertures

Verdict

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II is a fascinating lens for those who appreciate the artistic qualities of vintage optics. It excels in creating stunning portraits with its unique bokeh and vibrant colors, making it a worthy addition to the kit of any Leica M user looking for a lens that provides both character and charm. However, photographers who prioritize extreme sharpness across all apertures might find it less suited to their needs. Overall, if you're willing to embrace its quirks, this lens can yield some truly striking results.