How to Identify 4th Generation Summicron with the "great bokeh?"

jon koss

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Joined
Sep 4, 2004
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748
Location
Boston, MA
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35mm
Hello all - As I was preparing for a bit more pruning of the collection, I came across my 35 Summicron-M. While researching it on eBay I came across a type of 35 Summicron referred to as "4th generation" or "last generation before ASPH." The chief merit of this class was the "smooth bokeh." Prices seemed quite strong for this group. Only catch is, I was not sure if my lens (see the attached photo) falls into this group! Serial number is 33081xx. Can anyone let me know if this lens is part of the exclusive smooth bokeh club?

Thanks in advance,
Jon
 

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David H. Bebbington

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Dec 12, 2004
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East Kent, U
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The serial # puts this lens as made in 1994. Since the pre-aspherical 4th version was made from 1980 to 1997, your lens is one of these! Seven elements as opposed to the six of versions 2 and 3. Bokeh = a matter of personal taste!

Regards,

David
 
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jon koss

Member
Joined
Sep 4, 2004
Messages
748
Location
Boston, MA
Format
35mm
Thank you David for the response. After researching the matter on CameraQuest I had thought that was the case, but it is easy to get a bit lost in Leicaland. I appreciate the confirmation.

Jon
 
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