Cosina’s Voigtlander has so far offered some great lenses for Leica M users. For instance, they recently launched Portrait Heliar 75mm f1.8, a lens that allows you to control the softness of the bokeh, which is ideal for a variety of genres. There is also the 110mm f2.5 Macro, which offers sharpness and character to modern lenses. Joining this exciting portfolio is a new wide-angle lens, which is perfect for street, events, and landscape photographers: Voigtlander Apo-Lanthar 28mm f2 Aspherical VM.
First reported by Leica Rumors, the Voigtlander 28mm f2 lens promises to offer ultimate performance to full-frame Leica users and claims to also reduce chromatic aberrations seen in wide-angle lenses. In fact, its f2 aperture also states to produce bokeh, which can work for a variety of situations. Here is a look at its main specs:
- Aperture ratio: 1:2
- Lens construction: 12 elements in 8 groups
- Angle of view: 74.0°
- Number of aperture blades: 12
- Minimum focusing distance: 0.5m
- Distance coupling range: 0.7m
- Maximum diameter x total length: 55.6×50.0mm (excluding accessories and protrusions)
- Filter size: 49mm
- Weight: 265g
- Accessories: Front cap, rear cap, lens hood
- Price: 148,500 yen ($1,030)
In addition, the lens is said to have a rigid and durable build, thanks to its all-metal lens barrel. Due to the floating mechanism, the 28mm lens is also said to have a better close focus performance. However, like other Voigtlander lenses, this one does not autofocus, and one has to rely on the focus ring for operation.
On paper, the Voitgalder lens looks quite promising. Its bright focus will allow people to get more light in a dimly lit environment without needing to pump up the noise. It is also small and lightweight, which makes it ideal for anyone who travels a lot or wants a smaller setup. In addition, the price is quite enticing. However, those who want something more affordable will choose the 7Artisans 28mm f1.4, which costs half the price.
We do have a lot of promise from the Voigtlander 28mm Apo-Lanther, especially since other focal ranges in this series performed so well. The 110mm f2.5, the 50mm f2, and the 65mm f2 offered great colors, sharpness, contrast, and bokeh. But the only challenge is the lack of weather sealing, which is not present in many third-party lenses at this price point. A lens like the Voigtlander 28mm, thus, can have various applications, including for both seasoned and serious enthusiasts wanting an additional lens with character with.
We are eagerly waiting to review the wide-angle wonder to see whether it can win us over like its siblings. Do keep an eye out for the review.