The APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH. is widely regarded as a benchmark for optical and mechanical precision. This classic standard focal length combines extraordinary resolution with natural image rendering, delivering a clear and authentic view of the subject. In its new Metal Gray finish, the lens gains a distinctive visual character that emphasizes the purity of its form while reflecting the same technical clarity, coherence, and craftsmanship that define Leica’s design philosophy.
More than 30 years after the launch of the Summicron-M 50mm f/2, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH. represents a completely new development. With its compact body, only marginally longer and slightly heavier than the classic Summicron-M 50mm f/2, and with an almost identical diameter, it provides visibly higher image quality.
On the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH., exceptional correction enables all aberrations to be reduced to a level that is negligible in digital photography. Its key features include excellent contrast rendition all the way to the corners of the image, even at full aperture. The use of a floating element ensures that this performance is retained even for close-up shots.
Vignetting is limited to a maximum of just 2 stops at full aperture in 35mm format. Stopping down to f/2.8 visibly reduces this light falloff toward the edge of the image, with practically only natural vignetting remaining.
Distortion is very low at a maximum of just 0.4%, which is practically imperceptible. A total of eight lens elements are used to achieve this exceptional performance.
To realize apochromatic correction, resulting in a common focusing plane for three light wavelengths, three elements are made of glass types with high anomalous partial dispersion, while two others have a high refractive index. The aspherical surface of the first lens in the rear group helps reduce spherical aberration and flatten the image field. The rear group also includes a floating element, which moves independently of the rest of the optical system during focusing.
