Discovering the Leica Summilux 35mm f/1.4 asph Pre-FLE (11874)
Discovering the Leica Summilux 35mm f1.4 asph Pre-FLE (11874)
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Discovering the Leica Summilux 35mm f/1.4 asph Pre-FLE (11874)
I had initially overlooked the Leica Summilux 35mm f1.4 ASPH Pre-FLE (11874) lens due to concerns about potential focus shift issues. However, its distinctive square camera hood remained an alluring feature. My perspective changed when I met Charlie during a nighttime photowalk in Mongkok, Hong Kong. I mounted his 11874 lens onto my Leica M10-P, eager to see how it compared to the Leica Summilux 35mm f1.4 ASPH FLE (11663).
Many photographers have claimed that the 11874 lens boasts creamier bokeh and smoother transitions in both film and digital formats than its successor. The 11663, on the other hand, is often described as lacking character due to its clean, modern look, which can be easily mistaken for other modern aspherical lenses.
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After testing Charlie’s lens, I was impressed and quickly decided to purchase one for myself. It’s worth noting that if you’re considering this lens, many recommend seeking a serial number starting with “392” to minimise focus shift. My own experience confirms that while there is some focus shift at smaller apertures like f/2.8, it is barely noticeable. I had the chance to compare two copies at Fotopia HK, one with serial “392” and the other “407.” The latter had slightly sharper performance when wide open, but I ultimately chose the “392” for its more accurate focus.
I took the lens on a day trip to China, where I captured captivating street market scenes. I used Kodak Ektachrome 100D 5294, Kodak Vision 3 5207 250D, and Fujifilm Fujicolor C200 colour negative films. The resulting images showcased rich, natural transitions, providing the comfortable look I had always desired. It reminded me of the Summilux 35/1.4 Pre-ASPH lens, minus the Leica glow. The lens also performed beautifully with my digital files, offering a sharpness that felt just right, as opposed to the overly sharp FLE version.
The Leica Summilux 35mm f1.4 ASPH Pre-FLE has now become my favourite 35mm lens. If you’re considering adding it to your collection, I recommend trying it out beforehand and paying attention to the serial number if focus shift is a concern.
Special thanks to Charlie letting me try this Summilux 11874.
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Very interesting. I wonder how it compares to the Double Aspherical ?
I don’t have enough experience with the Double Aspherical to tell the difference. I have only did a few test shots in a camera shop, double aspherical however gives you a kind of cinematic look (I suspect more vignette at wide open) and creamier bokeh than this pre-FLE 11874.
I was curious about this lens as it’s sometimes about the same price as the pre-asph. I really like the samples you shared, might consider getting one when I visit HK next summer.
I think this lens is an underdog and the price is going down. Try to look for late serial number like I mentioned for a copy with least focus shift. I think you will love it. Happy to meet for a coffee if you happen to be in HK!
Do you have any idea on the performance / focus shift issues on lenses starting with a 409 serial number? Thank you for the review
I think you have to try each copy to tell the focus shift difference. The 409 serial I tried in store also suffer from some focus shift. My brief observation is that there is some subtle improvement in sharpness in later serials, that’s what I notice when I have the 11874 early and late batch for a quick comparison.