35 Summicron V1 vs 4th Cron vs ASPH Dilemma

<p>I recently went through an extended consideration of 35mm lenses. Of course, you need to consider size, price, and speed, but rendering is also a factor. Oddly, I purchased a Cron 35mm ASPH. I say "oddly" because I really knew I didn't like its rendering (being too modern and Karbeian for me). What's funny (only in retrospect, I assure you) is that the lens arrived, wasn't used, and I missed the deadline for returning it to the dealer. (I thought it was 30 days, but it was much, much shorter!) So I had to sell it myself, at a small loss. Anyway, I much prefer the rendering of either the Cron 35mm v4 or the Lux 35mm asph v1. They are a mix of modern AND classic, while the Cron asph and new Lux asph FLE are more modern and perfect. Alas, I ended up with a Lux 35mm asph v1 in mint condition, and I'm darn happy with it. If I hadn't chosen it, I definitely would have gotten a Cron 35mm v4.</p>

<p>I agree with you, Ramosa. I think the digital have spoiled us. 4th cron was my first 35mm lens and was happy with it in film days and was extremely happy when I traded to 35 Lux Asph V1.<br>

Right now I've found a compromise between price and quality.<br>

I loved 4th cron in film days and when it was around $800. Not at the price these days.<br>

I loved 35 Lux Asph V1 when it was around $2200 and not at the price these days.<br>

I would love 35 Cron V1 8 element's clasic rendering and sharpness but not at the price these days. I'll leave that to collectors.<br>

I am perfectly happy with 35 Summaron for size and sharpness especially for it's less than $1000. I don't know how long this relationship with Summaron will last before I desire 35 Lux v1 but right now for my financial situation, this Summaron suits me better.<br>

I agree again that the newer ASPH is too sharp almost surreal especially corners. I've had 50 Lux ASPH for a short time and I like my DR Cron's rendering better for me.<br>

The only lens would make a difference on prints is 35 Lux asph v1 at wide open shots, the rest at mid f-stops it's hard to distinguish prints made with other than pixel peeping.</p>