* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Leica 50mm f/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH. M-Mount Lens with Built-In Hood, Black Anondized 6-Bit {E46} 11728
-
$4,602.00
Leica Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH.: the refined standard.
The 2023 Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. carries forward a legendary optical formula in a redesigned housing that now matches the compact profile of the Summilux-M 35mm. At 337g and 59.3mm long, it wears unobtrusively on any M body. The 8-element, 5-group design has been updated with a revised internal element, and the optics are tuned specifically for high-resolution digital sensors, pulling full contrast and fine detail at f/1.4 where older designs begin to soften.
The jump from 9 to 11 aperture blades makes a tangible difference when shooting wide open, highlights render rounder and out-of-focus transitions read more naturally across the frame. The minimum focusing distance dropped from 70cm to 45cm, which opens up tighter framing on subjects that simply weren't accessible with the previous version. Rangefinder coupling works normally down to 70cm; from there to 45cm, focusing requires Live View, the Visoflex, or the Leica FOTOS app. The built-in retractable hood deploys with one hand and adds no extra pieces to lose in the field.
At f/1.4 with a 45.4° angle of view, this lens earns its place in serious kits. The 6-bit coding ensures automatic EXIF data and lens correction on digital M bodies, and the 46mm filter thread keeps front accessories straightforward.
Who It's For
Street photographers working digital M bodies get 6-bit coding for automatic corrections and a minimum focus distance of 45cm that brings context and subject into the same tight frame. Portrait shooters drawn to rangefinder shooting will find the 11-blade diaphragm renders background highlights with noticeably less geometric clipping than its predecessor. Documentary and travel photographers who prioritize discretion benefit from the compact 58.6mm diameter and 337g weight. Photographers migrating from film M systems to high-resolution digital sensors will find the updated optical formula holds up to modern sensor demands without requiring a lens change.
Key Features
- 8-element, 5-group design optimized for high-resolution digital sensors
- f/1.4 maximum aperture with 11-blade diaphragm for natural bokeh
- Minimum focus distance of 45cm, down from previous 70cm
- Compact 59.3mm housing matching Summilux-M 35mm profile
- Built-in retractable lens hood deploys with one hand
- 6-bit coding for automatic EXIF data and lens correction
- 46mm filter thread
- Leica M mount
FAQ
- How does the 2023 version differ from the older Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4?
- The redesigned housing is now compact like the 35mm version (337g, 59.3mm long), minimum focus distance improved from 70cm to 45cm, diaphragm increased from 9 to 11 blades for rounder bokeh, and internal optics were revised to pull better contrast and detail at f/1.4 on high-resolution digital sensors.
- Can I focus at 45cm with my rangefinder?
- Rangefinder coupling works normally down to 70cm. Below that, you'll need Live View, the Visoflex, or the Leica FOTOS app to focus accurately at 45cm.
- What's the angle of view at 50mm?
- 45.4°, making it a true standard focal length - versatile enough for everything from environmental portraits to street work.
- Does the lens have autofocus?
- No. This is a manual-focus design typical of M-mount lenses. The 6-bit coding provides automatic EXIF data and lens correction on compatible M bodies, but focusing is all manual.
- What's included with the lens?
- The built-in retractable hood deploys with one hand and stays attached to the lens. It adds no extra pieces to manage in the field.
- Will this lens work on M film cameras?
- Yes. The M-mount is shared across Leica's film and digital M bodies. Older bodies won't have the 6-bit coding advantages, but the lens functions normally.
- What filter size does it take?
- 46mm, which keeps front accessories straightforward and affordable compared to larger thread sizes.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 50mm |
| Max Aperture | 1.4 |
| Min Aperture | 16 |
| Mount | Leica M |
| Min Focus Distance | 1.5' / 45 cm |
| Lens Format | Full Frame |
| Angle Of View | 45.4° |
| Elements | 8 |
| Groups | 5 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 11 |
| Filter Thread | 46mm |
| Length | 2.3" / 59.3 mm |
| Maximum Diameter | 2.3" / 58.6 mm |
| Package Weight | 2.05 lb |
| Box Dimensions | 6.3 x 4.7 x 4.7" |
| Weight | 11.9 oz / 337 g |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Leica |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Manual focus (only) |
| Lens Mount | Leica M |
| Lens Type | Standard / Normal |
| Max Focal Length | 50mm |
| Min Focal Length | 50mm |