The previously rumored Voigtlander HELIAR Classic 50mm f/1.5 VM lens for Leica M-mount is now officially announced. The new lens will start shipping in September for ¥90,000 (around $800). Sample photos can be found here and here. Next are some hands-on photos courtesy of DC.watch:
Pre-orders for Voigtlander HELIAR Classic 50mm f/1.5 VM lens will be open soon at: Adorama | Amazon | B&H Photo | PopFlash | Jo Geier (EU).
Additional informtioan:
The lens configuration is based on the Helia type with 6 elements in 3 groups, achieving a large aperture of F1.5. In pursuit of a classical image that modern lenses do not have, we have adopted an optical design that intentionally expresses various aberrations. In addition to the timeless bokeh that is not a projectile, the remaining coma flare and the single coating finish on the lens give an extremely unique aperture-opening depiction. This tendency is reduced by narrowing down the aperture, and from the aperture F4, the performance is equivalent to that of other Voigtlander VM mount 50mm lenses.
Focal length |
50mm |
Caliber ratio |
1: 1.5 |
Minimum aperture |
F16 |
Lens configuration |
6 elements in 3 groups |
Angle of view |
45.9 ° |
Number of diaphragm blades |
10 sheets |
Shortest shooting distance |
0.5m |
Rangefinder interlocking range |
∞ ～ 0.7m (depending on the camera) |
Maximum diameter x total length |
φ56.5 × 41.9mm |
Filter size |
φ49mm |
weight |
255g |
Lens hood |
Dedicated screw-in hood included |
coating |
SC (single coating) |
Main features:
● Achieves a large aperture of F1.5 that exceeds the limit of the unique aperture depiction helia type. The optical design that intentionally expresses aberrations at full aperture provides classical bokeh and flare not found in modern lenses.
● Classical appearance The
all-metal focus ring is knurled with a diamond pattern using a special cutting tool to improve operability with specifications that prevent slipping in both the rotation and optical axis directions in addition to its beautiful appearance. ..
● Adopting a single coating A single coating
is intentionally adopted on the surface of the spherical lens. It reproduces the classical color tone before multi-coating became common.
● The shortest shooting distance is 0.5m
. Interlocking with a rangefinder It is possible to focus up to 0.5m beyond the shortest shooting distance of 0.7m. You can get closer to the subject by using the live view function of the rangefinder-linked digital camera.
● Manual focus that enables reliable focus operation
By adopting an all-metal helicoid unit that has been processed and adjusted with high precision and high-quality grease that produces an appropriate torque, focusing with a smooth operation feeling is realized. It enables fine focus adjustment.
● Bayonet type VM mount
A VM mount compatible with the Leica M mount is used for the lens mount.
● Equipped with a distance meter interlocking system The
high-precision rangefinder interlocking mechanism enables severe focusing near the maximum aperture.
● Full-size
image circle We have secured a generous image circle that supports full-frame 35mm format. In addition, it achieves a very compact style compared to interchangeable lenses for single-lens reflex cameras.
