Voigtlander NOKTON classic 40mm F1.4 SC whats it like?

[andyw]

I'm watching a Voigtlander NOKTON classic 40mm F1.4 SC, Leica M Mount.

Anyone know what they are like? Are they comparable to Leica, Canon 'L' series lenses? (i.e. high quality above most others)

Thnx

[scsambrook]

I have a CV 35/1.7 and find it very good. For the price, it's marvellous value for money.

I've never used the 40/1.4 but it seems to get generally favourable comments on RFF Forum. The design's based on the "Mark 2" Leica 35/1.4 Summilux rangefinder lens which gave its best at distances over five feet (1.5 metres). I can testify to that because I used to have one. My CV 35/1.7 is better at 1.7 than the Summilux, but not as good as the Summilux at apertures smaller than 2.8. In fact, my 35/2.8 Summaron is better than both at f4. But really, we're splitting hairs here. At distances of five feet to 20 feet, these rangefinder lenses are terrific. I think you'll like the CV 40, but remember it wasn't designed for taking close ups of flowers!

[andyw]

Thanks for the reply. Most appreciated. I just don't know if i can pay £300 odd for that lens plus £50 for an adapter but the flickr examples i have found do make the lens look good.

[F16SUNSHINE]

It's a fantastic performer for the usual $300 used price tag.
I've used that lens extensively on my RD1 in fact, it has given me the most keepers of any lens on that body.

Here is a thread with shots in low light as the lens was designed for.

http://forum.mflenses.com/burning-man-decompression-party-t12323,highlight,burning+man.html