In the past few months I have been receiving tips about various new Noctilux lenses (see this and this post). I finally realized that we are not talking about a single lens here – Leica is rumored to start a whole new separate lens line under the Noctilux name. The upcoming Noctilux-M 75mm f/1.25 ASPH could be the first in a series of new Noctilux lenses with different focal lengths that will be introduced in the next few years.
The first pictures of the upcoming Leica TL2 mirrorless camera leaked online. As I already reported the new TL2 will keep the same form factor as the previous T/TL models. The main upgrade will be the new 24MP APS-C sensor. Here is what else to expect from the TL2:
Several readers asked me if Leica will introduce a new SL camera after the recent price drop. Here is what David Farkas from Leica Store Miami had to say on this topic:
I received some additional information on the upcoming Leica TL2 mirrorless camera (updated July 7th):
Very similar to the T and TL design
No EVF
Very fast everything
New 24MP sensor
No flash
Max ISO: 50,000
4K video
New customizable interface with more selections and options
The edges of the body are now smoother compared to the T and TL
The official announcement will be on or around July 10th
The Leica TL2 will use the same Visoflex as the M10
The CNC machining of the camera is slightly modified from the T/TL as the edges are chamfered to reduce the “normal-angle” sharp edging of the previous models. This chamfering stops about half an inch short of the hot-shoe from both sides.
Several readers have asked me where they can purchase the 7Artisans 50mm f/1.1 lens for Leica M-mount in Europe. Amazon Germany and Amazon UK now both have the lens listed in stock on their websites:
In the US the lens is available at Amazon and eBay.
Additional information on the 7Artisans 50mm f/1.1 lens can be found here.
Here is a quick update from a reader:
I received my lens yesterday. I wanted to describe the actual lens for the benefit of the readers…
The lens came by DHL in abut a week after ordering through Amazon US. There was no duty collected. The lens is 6 bit coded as the F1.0 Noctilux. No lens hood was included. Fit and finish look excellent. There are included instructions to calibrate the lens and the rangefinder to your camera. (You loosen screws, rotate the focusing helix, tighten the screws.) This is required only for use on M cameras. Lens appears to be coated. The rotational distance to go from Infinity to .7 meters is less than 90 degrees. I would have preferred more for a lens with very thin DOF. have not shot the lens yet, so no comments on image quality.
The new Leica TL2 mirrorless camera is rumored to be announced on or around July 10th. I am still not 100% sure about the exact date, but as I already reported, the TL2 should be announced this month.
