03/03/2026 9:11 am
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So i finally saved up and grabbed a used M10-P for my trip to Tokyo next month and i really want to get that classic filmy look without actually shooting film because... well prices lol. I spent all night reading about the 35mm Summicron v4 because everyone calls it the King of Bokeh but then other forums say it’s a waste of money on digital because the sensor reveals all the soft edges and i should just buy a modern Voigtlander instead.
I really want that Leica glow but im worried these old lenses wont play nice with a 24mp sensor. Is it worth dropping like $2000 on a v4 or should i look at something like an old rigid Summicron 50mm? What are you guys actually using on your digital bodies that still feels vintage but doesnt look like a blurry mess?
5 Answers
12
03/03/2026 9:11 am
Unfortunately, the Leica 35mm Summicron-M f/2 v4 had issues with edge smearing on digital sensors. I've found the Leica 50mm Summicron-M f/2 Rigid performs significantly better for the price.
12
03/03/2026 10:15 am
Quick reply while I have a sec... what kind of glow are you actually hunting for? Is it the low contrast look or that specific spherical aberration?
- Leica 35mm Summaron-M f/3.5 has amazing micro-contrast despite the slow aperture. Check for internal haze tho.
- Leica 50mm Summarit-M f/1.5 is the king of glow but finding one with intact coatings is rare. Older glass is a mechanical gamble tbh.
2
03/03/2026 9:35 am
I agree about the v4 being overpriced for digital. Actually, sticking with a 35mm focal length and dropping down to an f/2.8 lens works way better imo. My last trip to Shinjuku with an old f/2.8 left me so happy with how it handled the neon.
- better edge performance
- nice classic flare
- smaller profile You get that organic look without the smearing. It just feels more balanced on an M10 anyway.
1
03/03/2026 10:15 am
Big if true
1
16/04/2026 9:26 am
Late to the party but this whole thread is 💯. Glad I found it.
