This review is a bit late since I sold the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM quite awhile ago, but the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM still remains one of my favorites for the Leica M8. Having owned and used both the Leica and Zeiss lenses, I feel more more to write this review now. When I owned the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM I was quite smitten with it, but maybe that is because I did not know any better?

ZEISS BUILD QUALITY

I have owned both the chrome and black version of the 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.

Aside from the finish quality, both lenses were identical in all other regards. Focus is smooth with a subtle bump on the focus ring for better grip. 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, that focus tab is part of my DNA now. If a lens does not have one, it feels odd. Everything about the 50mm Planar is nicely finished and the overall fit and assembly is good. Most of the ZM’s are assembled by Cosina, so there is plenty of internet-banter about whether the ZM’s are up to Zeiss standards. The Zeiss 50mm feels solid and well made, so whether Cosina or Zeiss does the assembly, I have no concerns.

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 infinitely more convenient and one less bauble to lose when shoot on the go. The ZM’s front filter thread is 43mm, so if shooting with the M8, 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).

HANDLING

The Zeiss 50mm ZM weighs 7 ounces and is fairly compact. 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 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. Most Leica reviews talk about Leica’s excellent build quality and smooth handling. I was not impressed with the feel of the focus ring on the Leica 50mm Summicron-M’s - I have owned two, a black and a chrome. If considering a Leica 50mm Summicron-M and Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM, I do not think the Zeiss gives up much compared to the Leica Summicron-M.

The Leica 50mm Summilux-M ASPH has amazing build quality with a wonderfully sorted focus ring. The Summilux’s built in hood also slides in and out easier (than the Summicron’s) and locks into position with a small twist when extended. The Summilux ASPH does have a notably better build quality than the Zeiss ZM; however, the Summilux costs 5X more, so... but I love my 50mm Summilux-M ASPH.

In terms of handling, the only advantages the Leica 50mm Summicron-M has over the Zeiss 50mm ZM are - a built-in hood and 6-bit coding. The 6-bit coding is not important for a 50mm focal length, but it is nice to have because the focal length data is stored in the EXIF. Also, the Leica M8’s firmware uses the focal length info to calculate auto-ISO and the flash settings in “TTL/GNC” mode on the Leica SF-24D flash. The 50mm ZM’s mount cannot be coded because a screw hole is present where the bit coding needs to be.

PERFORMANCE

Overall I think the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM’s strongest strengths are its colors and shallow depth of field. The ZM’s wide open sharpness is okay and on par with the Leica 50mm Summicron-M; however, the Leica 50mm Summilux-M ASPH is in a whole different league. The Summilux is simply the best 50mm lens I have used and now nothing else can compare. If you have budget and the desire to own perhaps the best 50mm lens made, buy the Summilux ASPH. If your decision is between the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM and the Leica 50mm F2 Summicron M, then keep reading.

Do I like the 50mm Summicron-M? Nah, not really. It is soft wide open and its rendering (signature) is boring. Used mint 50mm Summicron-M’s sell for ~$700 to $900 depending on age, condition, 6-bit coding, etc. It is not a grossly over-priced used lens; adjectives like “competent” and “capable” come to mind. I do not lust for another Summicron. A brief 50mm Summicron review available here.

The Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM has some signature to it. Its depth of field is thinner than the Summicron’s and that can lead to more pleasing bokeh. Also, the Zeiss’ colors are richer, brighter, more cheerful. The ZM’s performance wide open is so-so. I used to think it was quite good - until the Summilux ASPH arrived. The ZM is indeed good, but the 50mm Summilux-M ASPH is simply outstanding - and it has spoiled me.

I do have some gripes with the ZM. Infinity focus is very difficult to hit. I have tried four or five copies across four M8’s and without a doubt, infinity focus is NOT the lens’ strong suit. When the ZM is stopped down, DOF hides this shortcoming.

Had I written this mini-review 12 months ago, I would be telling everybody they need a ZM in their bag. After owning the Summilux ASPH, the recommendation has been amended --- if the Leica 50mm F1.4 Summilux-M is outside of your budget, then consider the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM. If deciding between the ZM and the Leica 50mm Summicron-M, my vote is for the ZM - preferably purchased used for ~$500 in mint condition. Or, if prefer new, check out the entire ZM collection at B&H Photo.