OVERVIEW

The Carl Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM lens is one of my favorites for the Leica M8. Compared to the price of a new Leica 50mm F2 Summicron-M, the Zeiss is a real bargain (available at B&H Photo). But there is more to the Zeiss ZM than just the thrifty price tag. Having owned and used a long list of Leica and Zeiss lenses, I look back at the pictures taken with a Zeiss 50mm Planar ZM and really like how the lens rendered the bokeh and contrast. The Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM’s contrast is very in-sync with the Leica M8‘s contrast.

BUILD QUALITY

I have owned both the chrome and black versions of the Carl Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM. Both lenses look nice, but the chrome version appeared to have a higher quality finish. The black version looked as if its engravings were stamped or pressed into the metal whereas the chrome looked like the markings had been etched or machined. Generally I prefer black lenses, but in this particular case I would pick the chrome version over black. Also, the Zeiss’ satin silver finish looks of quality. The enamel black finish looks somewhat plasticky and shows every little fingerprint. The chrome version seems slightly more scratch resistant as well. The black version does look somewhat similar to Leica black paint lens, especially with the red letting, so it does have its appeal.

Both the chrome and black versions are identical in their optical design and handling. Focus is smooth with a subtle bump on the focus ring for better grip (this is a pseudo focus tab like some Leica lenses). I prefer Leica’s larger focus tab (ie - Leica 50mm Summilux-M ASPH), but the Zeiss “nub” is better than nothing. At first the Leica focus tabs did not matter much (to me), but after using the Summilux-M for nearly a year, the focus tab feels comfortable, and by the position of the focus tab I know if the lens focused at close or far distances.

Everything about the Zeiss 50mm Planar is nicely finished and the fit and assembly is good. Most of the Zeiss ZM lenses assembled by Cosina, so there is plenty of internet-banter about whether the produced ZM’s meet the original design / specifications / tolerances set forth in Zeiss’ design. The Zeiss 50mm feels solid and well made, so whether Cosina or Zeiss does the assembly, I have no concerns. And the 50mm Planar ZM would probably cost considerably more if it were assembled in Germany by Zeiss technicians.

Neither of the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM’s developed the “Zeiss Wobble”. For whatever reason, over time some people have sent the Zeiss lenses in for service because of looseness. My recommendation is to purchase the lens from a reputable dealer and have the peace of mind that the Zeiss warranty provides.

The Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM’s metal hood is a bit big for my taste. Given a choice, I prefer the built-in sliding hoods such as Leica’s. A sliding hood is more convenient and one less bauble to lose when shooting on the go. The ZM’s front filter thread is 43mm, so if shooting with the Leica M8 or M8.2, a 43mm IR filter is needed. A 43mm filter is not as common as an E39, E46, etc., so when purchasing a ZM 50mm Planar, be sure to factor in this added cost (assuming it will be used on a Leica M8 or M8.2). Of course, the IR filter is not needed with the Leica M9, Epson RD-1 cameras, Micro 4/3’s cameras - and certainly not with film rangefinders.

HANDLING

The Zeiss 50mm ZM weighs 7 ounces and is a compact lens. The very front edge of the lens is visible in the M8’s viewfinder, but no more so than the Leica Summicron or Summilux. The hood quite visible, but it is vented which helps. The aperture ring is at the end of the lens and is easy to find by touch. The aperture ring steps in 1/3 stop increments; Leica steps in 1/2 stop increments. The focus ring is located in the middle of the lens and is easy to find as well. Overall the focus ring is smooth and turns easily.