Mirrorless camera lenses suffer from a lack of character. By that, we mean they are too sharp and clinical for their own good, and sometimes, that can be an issue for those wanting distinct images. But if you are a Leica user, then you know the company already has a variety of special lenses that blend the classic lenses with the technology of today. And to add to that range, Cosina has announced a new, limited edition 50mm lens to celebrate Voigtlander’s silver jubilee.
All the images are screenshots from Leica Rumor’s website.
A Vintage Cosina Lens
Voigtlander was one of the oldest German brands that made optical lenses. They were established in 1756, but it was not until 1839 that they began to cater to cameras and lenses. It wasn’t until the mid-1960s that the company began to face competition from Japanese brands. Eventually, in 1999, Voigtlander’s name was heard by Japanese lens maker Cosina. Since then, the company has been making identical cameras and lenses produced by Voigtlander in the past.
For the 25th anniversary, the company has revived the iconic APO-LANTHAR 50mm f/3.5 VM lens, which is named after the Leica M mount vintage lens. As seen in the images, the design is classic and appears compact, too. According to Leica Rumors, the lens is based on the already existing APO-LANTHAR 50mm F3.5 TypeI (two-tone), and features distance adjustment ring and hood. It is available in three colors, olive, gray, and navy. The publication notes that only 250 lenses in each color will be available for purchase at 125,000 yen, about $800. The lens will be released in December 2024.
Here’s a look at its specs:
| Focal length | 50 mm |
| Mount | VM-Mount |
| Light intensity | 1:3,5 |
| Smallest aperture | F 22 |
| Optical construction | 8 lenses in 6 groups |
| Angle of view | 45,7° |
| Aperture blades | 10 |
| Minimum distance | 45 cm |
| Filter size | Ø 34 mm |
| Maximum diameter | 52.0 mm |
| Length | 45,0 mm |
| Weight | 245 g (2-Tone), 150 g (Schwarz-matt) |
| Colors | Schwarz/Silber, Schwarz-matt |
| Accessories included | Lens hood, lens cap, rear cap |
Should You Purchase One?
This isn’t the first time we have seen a lens of one brand being made by another. For instance, Leica’s own lenses seem to feature the same optics as Sigma. That is somewhat visible in the image quality, too. However, in this case, we have tested many Voigtlander lenses, and the results have met our expectations. For instance, when we tested the Voigtlander 40mm f1.4 MC, we wrote: “While the lens is cheap, it shines like a premium gemstone on your camera. The focus is smooth like the frothiest Mumbai chai you’ve sipped. The apertures click like you’re unlocking a bank safe — only to be rewarded with the beautiful images it holds.”
Seeing iconic lenses back in stores is truly phenomenal. Especially with a 50mm being an ideal choice for portraits, Leica users can open up new avenues. It costs about $800, so that is a price you need to think about. But since it is a limited edition, the resale value years later would surely still be good later down the line.
Seeing Cosina launch vintage lenses again, we are also keen on Canon and Nikon to participate. They have plenty of great lenses that were launched for SLRs and DSLRs but haven’t been introduced for mirrorless cameras. Since every third-party lens brand makes optics that look and feel the same, with slight variations, we need a revival of these iconic gems. I hope we are proven right soon.