Description
The Noctilux-M is among the world's fastest 35mm lenses. Its extraordinary optical performance is eminently suited for photography in low light situations and for producing photographs with extremely shallow depth of field. It produces outstanding contrast rendition, so that barely noticeable color differences are faithfully separated and the finest structures of the subject are resolved accurately, even under extremely unfavorable light conditions. The Noctilux-M gives Leica-M photographers capabilities that are beyond the reach of other outfits.
This lens has been updated with the "6-bit" coding, which allows the digital M camera to read this information optically and to identify which lens is being used. The camera can then (optionally) apply a "final stage" software based vignetting correction (for RAW images the lens used is simply recorded, no change is made).
Features
• A high-performance lens of extreme speed for exceptional optical results
• Includes "6-bit code" which allows the digital M8 camera to identify which lens is being used, and also to store this information in image metadata
Item Includes
• Leica Normal 50mm f/1.0 Noctilux M Manual Focus Lens (6-Bit, Updated for Digital)
• Front & Rear Lens Caps
• Soft Leather Lens Case
• Built-In Telescopic Lens Hood
• 3-Year Limited Warranty
Reviews
The only lens when there's no light and you need the picture, November 11, 2006
By Mark W. Bohrer "Technology Writer & Documenta... (Saratoga, California)
I own three Leica 50mm lenses. The Noctilux is the one I use for weddings and commercial indoor work without flash or studio lights.
Pictures from this lens lack the sparkle of those from more recent Leica designs, but in a poorly-lit room with ISO 800 film, there's no other alternative if you have to get the picture without flash.
My lens is a first-version 50mm f/1, 11 821, but the optical formula hasn't changed since Walter Mandler designed it in 1976. Stopped down to f/1.2, the vignetting wide-open reduces a little.
The lens makes great images stopped down further, too, but it's a real boat anchor to carry. If you don't need the f/1 speed, the 50mm f/1.4 Summilux is much lighter and smaller. I use the second version - it's optically excellent. They're available used for less than $1000 if you hunt around a bit.
Another reviewer cites Canon's EF 50mm f/1, but this lens has been discontinued. Even used, it can fetch over $5000.
Canon will release the new EF 50mm f/1.2 in late 2006. For fast 50mm lenses, it and the Noctilux are your only choices.
