Want to trade my 35 mm Aspheric Summicron for the last version, pre-aspheric, as late and as pretty a model as I can find (say, ser #>3,500,000 approximate). Cosmetic scuffs I'll tolerate, bedgrudigly, not optical ones.

Why?

Well, I admit, based on my own side-by side comparisons and what is published, the asph is better and truly a great lens. Optically, it is demonstrably better, with loupe on slides, especially on the edges and/or at wide apertures, and is a bit better in flare control, and has a different flare pattern, less “diaphragm dominated”. Bokeh, for all its diminishing importance in wide angles, is, I think, even more pleasingly natural than that of the older one (surprise, compared to other newer lenses, and people may disagree). It is only slightly larger (still small), but does weigh more than its predecessor. People also rave about its better “flat field” effect.

But, due to weight differences, difference in feel, and its ever so minimal larger size, I handle it differently than I did its predecessor, maybe with too much care, certainly with less pocketing. With too many years of heavy reliance on the old, I have not made a safe transition to the new, and actually use it less often, especially less than the optics of the newer lens deserves. In short, I want the old feel back, and do not think the optics are that overwhelmingly superior to have a lens I use less.

Yes, I know about seller remorse, and never sell a Leica lens. Been there, will be again.

My aspheric is probably mint minus to exc plus (the lens hood does take a little contact, but the body/glass is fine), dates to the first release (?1998-9). Box, etc. I suppose I would feel more comfortable with a USA or Canadian, perhaps good e-bay record or LHSA member. E-mail at lacsm@bellsouth.net, if interested.

-- Lacey Smith (lacsm@bellsouth.net), February 24, 2002

Answers

http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1335148183

-- John Abela (jamriman@yahoo.com), February 24, 2002.

i've had 5-6 responses so far, and I assume one will work out. Thaks for the interest

-- Lacey Smith (lacsmith@bellsouth.net), February 25, 2002.