Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm f/2.0

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm f/2.0 is an impressive lens designed for the Leica M mount, offering photographers a combination of exquisite optical performance and classic design. Voigtländer is known for their high-quality lenses, and this model does not disappoint, making it a strong contender for those seeking a premium standard prime lens.

This lens utilizes advanced optical construction, featuring several special glass elements that contribute to its exceptional sharpness and minimized aberrations. Users will appreciate the impressive detail retrieval, even at wider apertures. The APO-Lanthar design helps to reduce color fringing and provides fantastic contrast, resulting in images that pop with vibrancy and clarity.

In terms of build quality, the Voigtländer APO-Lanthar is robust and compact, neatly fitting into the Leica M system's aesthetic. The all-metal body and smooth focus ring exude a sense of durability and craftsmanship. The lens has a classic retro look, with an elegant black finish that complements Leica cameras beautifully. The attention to detail in the construction means that this lens is not only a pleasure to use but also feels reliable in various shooting conditions.

On the practical side, its 35mm focal length is versatile and can be used for a wide range of photography genres, from street photography to landscapes. The f/2.0 maximum aperture offers good low-light performance, and the shallow depth of field capability allows for pleasing bokeh in portraits and detail-oriented compositions.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While the APO-Lanthar performs admirably in most situations, the minimum focus distance may be limiting for macro enthusiasts, making it less suitable for extreme close-up photography. Additionally, some users may find the manual focus system slower compared to autofocus alternatives, especially in fast-paced shooting environments.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional optical performance with minimal aberrations.
• Robust, well-built metal construction.
• Versatile 35mm focal length ideal for various genres.
• Smooth and pleasing bokeh thanks to the f/2.0 aperture.
• Compact size fits well with Leica M cameras.

Cons

• Limited minimum focus distance not suited for close-up photography.
• Manual focus may not be fast enough for urgent subjects.

Verdict

The Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm f/2.0 stands out as a superb option for photographers who appreciate classic lenses that excel in image quality and craftsmanship. While it may not meet the needs of those who prioritize macro capabilities or fast autofocus, its optical performance and build quality make it an excellent addition to any Leica M user’s kit. If you’re looking for a versatile and high-performing prime lens, the APO-Lanthar is certainly worth considering.