Voigtlander 75mm F1.8 Heliar Classic

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Voigtlander 75mm F1.8 Heliar Classic is a unique lens that combines classic optical design with modern build quality, making it an excellent addition for photographers using the Leica M mount. This lens excels in producing stunning bokeh, vibrant colors, and remarkable sharpness — traits that are essential for portrait photography and other applications requiring long focal lengths.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Voigtlander 75mm F1.8 is nothing short of outstanding. As with many lenses designed for the Leica M system, the body is constructed from solid metal, giving it a premium feel that matches the high-end cameras it is intended for. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise manual adjustments, which is paramount for achieving accurate focus on a rangefinder system.

The compact size of the lens is also worth mentioning; at 63mm in diameter and just over 400g in weight, it remains relatively lightweight and unobtrusive, making it a great option for street photography and travel. The classic design adds an aesthetic appeal that complements the Leica cameras beautifully.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Voigtlander 75mm F1.8 Heliar delivers impressive results. The lens is sharp even wide open at F1.8, with excellent central sharpness that holds up well through the aperture range. The out-of-focus areas are beautifully rendered, thanks to its 12-blade diaphragm that creates a smooth bokeh, which is quite essential for portrait work.

Moreover, color rendition is superb, with rich, vibrant tones and good contrast. This makes it exceptional for capturing skin tones, landscapes, or any situation where color accuracy is crucial.

However, it is worth noting that there can be some noticeable field curvature, which might affect focus at the edges, particularly when shooting wide open. It is also prone to some chromatic aberration, but these issues are usually manageable and can often be corrected in post-processing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with a classic design.
• Beautiful bokeh and color rendition.
• Sharp images even at maximum aperture.
• Compact and lightweight, ideal for on-the-go photography.

Cons

• Some chromatic aberration present.
• Noticeable field curvature affecting edge sharpness.
• Manual focus only, which may not appeal to all users.

Verdict

The Voigtlander 75mm F1.8 Heliar Classic is a remarkable lens for photographers who appreciate high-quality glass and desire a classic aesthetic. It will appeal to those who enjoy manual focusing and are seeking a characterful lens with beautiful rendering. While it has its minor quirks such as field curvature and chromatic aberration, the overall performance and handling make it a worthy contender in the Leica M mount lineup. Whether you're capturing portraits, street scenes, or other forms of creative imagery, this lens will not disappoint.