I wonder how difficult it would be to focus a 75 Summilux with a 0.58 finder. I'm generally into wide angles so the 0.58 is perfect. But, if I want to add a piece of equipment to my M outfit, the 75 would be perfect. But, I certainly can't afford BOTH a new body and a 75 lens.

Perhaps using the magnifier on the 0.58 would work? Or do I really need the 0.85 - 0.91 mag finder system (camera or camera and magnifier)?

Actually, what I'd really like would be a 50 f/1.4 with 75 summilux quality. Maybe I should put my money in the bank and wait.

-- Tom (therbert@miami.edu), April 15, 2002

Answers

I think the .58 with the magnifier would be just fine for a 75. I've used the 75 on my .75 and found it tricky to focus wide open close up. Under any other circumstances (say stopped down to 2.8 or better and two meters or more away) I've had no problems. I think a magnifier would help if you wanted to do portraits and you absolutely need the eyes as crisp as possible. For general use I have no problems whatever with the 75 on my .58.

Don't wait for a new 50/1.4 - while we'd all like to see one, and it's long overdue, Leica has shown no interest in producing a $3000+ 50/1.4 for the M. Get the 75 - it's a wonderful lens.

-- Paul Chefurka (paul@chefurka.com), April 15, 2002.

Sorry, "I've used the 75 on my .58..."

-- Paul Chefurka (paul@chefurka.com), April 15, 2002.

Sure it would work fine, but it wouldn't be easy, and it would take plenty of time to speed up the process and get accurate shots at wider apertures. I even still have a little difficulty focusing quickly with my .72, 90SAA and 1.25X, but it is more accurate.

I personally think that you'd have a difficult time, especially if you're used to focusing a telephoto with an SLR. Don't mean to sound pesamistic, but my own experience hasn't been as easy as I would've liked.

Good luck

-- Kristian (leicashot@hotmail.com), April 15, 2002.