Initial Impression: Voigtländer 50 mm/1:3.5 Heliar Vintage VM
M-mount Classic Normal Lens
This is probably the most quirky currently-in-production lens for the M-mount, looking more like a mini Dalek from Dr. Who than a boring camera lens. The black and silver vintage design is reminiscent of famous Voigtländer classics from the 19th century but apparently is a modern lens design.
This is first look at the specs, the exterior and the initial impression of the lens. Stay tuned for a more detailed review and sample pictures taken with this lens!
This normal lens consists of 5 lenses in 3 groups and has a minimum focusing distance of 0.7m. The maximum aperture is f3.5 (yes you read that correctly, not 1.5 but 3.5!) which means the lens is not very fast nor will generate a lot of bokeh in typical situations.
However, with its 10 aperture blades, Voigtländer claims it can deliver exceptionally smooth bokeh. Well, we shall certainly find out, though it may be a challenge to find a situation where we can experience that bokeh!
The lens also comes with a small black metal hood (with a matching black metal lens cap with the Voigtländer logo printed on it) which if anything adds to the quirky experience. The filter size is 27mm which is extremely unusual but I doubt most owners will ever want to attach a filter to this lens
Although designed to be used by M-mount rangefinder cameras such as the Leica M series, the lens can also be used on many current digital camera models using adapters.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 50 mm |
| Aperture Ratio | 1:3.5 |
| Minimum Aperture | F 22 |
| Lens Construction | 5 elements in 3 groups |
| Angle of View | 46° |
| Aperture Blades | 10 |
| Minimum Focus | 0.7 m |
| Maximum Diameter | 52 mm |
| Length | 43.2 mm |
| Mount | M-mount (VM) |
| Weight | 187 g |
| Filter Size | 27 mm |
| Color | black & silver |
| Others | “screw-in”-type lens hood, clickless aperture, rotating front element, rangefinder can be combined |
Unboxing and Closeup Photos
The lens comes in a standard Voigtländer packaging, with a small manual.
Lens mounted on a Leica M10
Initial Impressions
There is no doubt this is beautiful looking lens and looks really unique mounted on any body. On the Leica M10 it create a look that is both retro and futuristic at the same time, with a hint of steampunk.
The aperture control is continuous and has a tendency to be accidentally moved when adjusting focus. After a while, I was used to it. Also the entire lens barrel (along with the aperture ring) rotates when the focus ring is moved.
Related Articles in this Series
Sydney street photography with the Voigtländer Heliar 50mm/1:3.5 and Leica M10
St James’ Church with the Voigtländer Heliar 50mm/1:3.5 and Leica M10
St Mary’s Cathedral with the Voigtländer Heliar 50mm/1:3.5 and Leica M10
Circular Quay walk with the Voigtländer Heliar 50mm/1:3.5 and Leica M10
Surry Hills walk with the Voigtländer Heliar 50mm/1:3.5 and Leica M10
