Canon 50mm 1.8 ltm, A good sub 100 option for leica m4 ?

[seanelm mkII]

I want to get a nifty fifty for my M but want to spend as little as possible, any suggestions? in the 20-100 euro range

 

[mnemosyne]

If you can get a Canon 50mm f1.8 for 100 Euro or less in nice condition, this is really a very good lens which compares favorably with the early summicrons, not to mention the excellent price-perfomance ratio. Compared to the early Summicrons it has more contrast (and perceived sharpness) wide open, much higher flare resistance in a smaller and lighter package. Donwisdes are higher distortion and the odd filter size (40mm). Then there is the limited minimum focus distance (1 m) (same as the early Summicrons but less than the later ones starting with version III (1969-79), which feature 0.7m). Build quality of the Canon is not Leitz level, but quite good IMO. Make sure you get a clean copy, Some of the Canon lenses tend to build up haze. This is based on my personal experience with a later 50mm f1.8 (black/chrome barrel), I do not own or cannot comment on the earlier serenar (all chrome barrel) lenses.

 

[Ian Grant]

I bought 4 Jupiter 8 50mm f2 lenses at £5 (5.65 euros) each, all in excellent condition. They are great lenses, the Canon 50mm lenses are more consistent though.

You'd need an L39 to M mount adaptor to use any LTM lens on your M4. I have an early Summicron on my M3, it's a superb lens great wide open , excellent contrast and flare free so not matching the comments above.

Ian

 

[guangong]

I have both. A Canon 50 for my Canon P (the poor man’s M4) as well as early Summicron w goggles for M3 and 1968 Summicron for M4. My experience with Summicron lenses is same as Ian’s. Truly great lenses. I would even say that most ltm Canon lenses have significant haze and would only buy from a reputable dealer who accepts returns.

 

[Ko.Fe.]

First one I have was with unremovable fog. The fog is very common for these lenses. Some might have it removable.
My second one is without fog. It is OK lens. Very well build, easy to service.
At one meter distance focus collar is vertical on M Leicas. And it is long focus throw.
With 40 to 40.5 step up ring for filter and filter, no hood is needed.

Jupiter 8 most likely will needs re-shimming. With black version it is not difficult.
If Jupiter, I'll skip 8 and go for 3. I have one as well and using it on Leica M cameras.
It is lens with lot more character, different rendering and smaller size and lighter weight.
To be honest I like it more than Canon for BW.
Takes common 40.5 filters and eBay hoods.

For 20 your safe bet is Industar-61 L/D.

But cheap LTM to M adapter is always the gamble.

I had Cron Collapsible and 50 1.8 is nowhere near to this lens on BW film and prints. I'm regretting of selling this Cron.
Then I had Cron Rigid (same is DR with goggles) and now V4. Both are very sterile on BW, with V4 superior rendering in color.

 

[darkosaric]

Cheap and good - my voice goes to collapsible Industar-22.