Voigtlander 50mm f3.5 APO-LANTHAR VM Type I Matte Black Lens

The Voigtlander 50mm f3.5 APO-LANTHAR Type I Matte Black is an extremely high performance manual focus standard lens optimized for full frame VM mount cameras. The apochromatic design thoroughly eliminates chromatic aberration on axis and other aberrations, while pursuing ultimate performance in terms of resolution and contrast reproduction. While adopting a maximum aperture of F3.5, the lens is composed of eight elements in six groups, four of which are made of anomalous partial dispersion glass to achieve uncompromising optical performance.

The lens combines ultimate optical performance with easy handling and classic vintage rangefinder lens styling. As a tribute to classic rangefinder lenses that appeared in the mid 20th century, the more expensive vintage style straight slot screw heads were chosen instead of less expensive modern Phillips head.

Equipped with a high precision rangefinder linked mechanism, and the silky feel of the all metal helicoid allowing the photographer to experience the true joy of focusing using a traditional rangefinder. The minimum focusing distance of the Type I is 0.45m. The rangefinder close focus is 0.7m (depending upon camera capability), which is linked to the rangefinder. A mechanism is provided to recognize the junction point of the rangefinder linked range by a clicking sensation during focusing operation.

The filter diameter is a retro inspired φ34mm. Two versions of Type I are available: a two tone black paint and chrome model with a heavy feel using brass materials (body weight: 245g) and a lightweight model with a matte black paint and aluminium construction (body weight: 150g). Each version includes a metal hood and a metal cap with the same finish as the lens body.