Leica APO-SUMMICRON-M 90 mm f/2 ASPH specifications

[michael_londarenko]

Hi!

 

As I recall Leica used to produce APO-Summicron-M 90mm f/2.0 ASPH in chrome

version between 2002 and 2004 or something like that. From then on this lens is

available in black anodized finish only.

 

So, I have two questions. If anybody has an old specifications brochure for the

silver and black versions I'm curious to know whether the only difference

between the two versions (black or chrome) is weight (and that would mean brass

for chrome and anodized aluminum for black) ?

 

Second question is - does anyone know why exactly Leica discontinued chrome

version? Was there a problem with it in terms of manufacturing or perhaps it's a

pure supply and demand issue and chrome was simply not popular?

 

 

Thanks in advance,

Mike.

[Bill Blackwell Images]

The only difference was the material used (heavier brass vs. lighter aluminum alloy) - I may have a PDF copy of the lens brochure, which includes the weight of each (email me off-line and I will track it down and send it to you).

 

The silver chrome was discontinued because of slow sales and to streamline production of the lens.

[mostly sports]

What about black paint?

[dougfromtumwater]

Hi Michael

 

I own the 90AA Chrome and it is a beautiful lens! The weight (620 grams) is higher than the black chrome model but I find the balance fine with my M6TLL.

[Bill Blackwell Images]

Black paint and silver chrome weigh the same - the same material (brass) is underneath each finish.

[michael_londarenko]

Bill,

 

That's what I suspected, but I simply wonder if perhaps there is another reason for that, not just because of slow sales. For example problems with precise assembly or reliability issues or anything else of this sort. Brass itself may have gotten too expensive (copper and zinc have nearly quadrupled in price in last decade if I recall correctly). If the finish alone was the problem, they could have just as easily painted the brass version with black paint. You see my point?

[dougfromtumwater]

I've not heard of any specific mechanical problems with the 90 AA chrome lenses. Mine is smooth as silk after a couple years of use. All Leica lenses made up to at least the late sixties where brass, including the large 90mm Summicrons of the day.

[jerry_pfile3]

I can't help but think that production costs, both direct and indirect, had some bearing on Leica's decision to remove several chrome lenses from their catalog.

 

Jerry

[michael_londarenko]

Jerry,

 

I'd tend to agree with this, it's most likely a combination of factors.

I should get a black version next week, hopefully I'm going to like it. A lot. :)