Any user comments on the Leica R 19mm f2.8 (second model) lens?

<p>Any user comments on the Leica R 19mm f2.8 (second model) lens? <br /> <br />I can't find a lot on the web. <br>

It looks like an interesting lens, and might be fun to use on an SLR, saving the peculiarities of using an auxiliary finder.<br>

The f2.8 speed looks appealing, and it is nicely into the super-wide angle range.<br>

Not too expensive either, considering that it is Leica glass.<br>

Vick</p>

<p>What info are you looking for? It's excellent, in both colour and B&W. They're not that cheap though, they generally sell for around US $1,500 used, unless prices have dropped lately. The first version is about half that, they're very different lenses - the first has a classic look, the 2nd is a technically improved lens with a modern character.<br>

There are some examples of the second version on my flickr - <a href="

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/geoff_roberts/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/geoff_roberts/</a> </p>

 

<p>Thanks Geoff.<br>

Yes, I agree with your comments. <br>

Not an easy lens to find used.<br>

regards<br>

Vick</p>

<p>It is being used by those of us who want a good UW for use on their Canon FF digitals, so is in even shorter supply than might be expected.</p>

<p>On Canon 5D or 5D mk2, you would need to shave either the Canon mirror or the lens rear shroud. It's very sharp in center and is soft in extreme corners. I sold my Zeiss 21mm ZE after having this lens. Both are superb. I just prefer Leica's rendering and color gradation better. Interesting my Leica copy is sharper than Zeiss 21mm at center f2.8 -- this is contrary to most reports I saw on Internet. I think it flares easier than Zeiss though.<br>

--Cuong</p>