Voigtlander’s New APO-Lanthar 50mm f/3.5 Lenses
Voigtlander has introduced two new 50mm f/3.5 APO-Lanthar lenses designed for Leica M and Nikon Z mounts, blending modern optical performance with a vintage aesthetic. These lenses promise superior image quality through the use of apochromatic (APO) design, minimizing chromatic aberrations and ensuring sharp, high-contrast images across the frame.
The 50mm focal length paired with the f/3.5 aperture makes these lenses versatile for a variety of photography styles, including street photography, where capturing detailed and true-to-life images is crucial. The lenses feature an all-metal construction, adding to their durability and giving them a classic, robust feel. Voigtlander has carefully engineered these lenses to meet the demands of both modern photographers and enthusiasts who appreciate the tactile experience of manual focus.
In terms of optical construction, the lenses consist of 8 elements in 6 groups, incorporating aspherical elements to further enhance image clarity and reduce distortions. The aperture range from f/3.5 to f/22 allows photographers to experiment with depth of field, providing ample creative control over their shots.
These lenses also feature a ten-blade diaphragm, contributing to pleasing bokeh, which is a desirable characteristic in street photography for separating subjects from backgrounds. The close focusing distance of 50cm allows for detailed close-up shots, adding to their versatility.
Here are some sample pictures provided by Cosina taken by Yasuyuki Takaki:
Voigtlander’s commitment to maintaining high standards in lens manufacturing is evident in these new offerings. The APO-Lanthar 50mm f/3.5 lenses are not just tools for capturing images but are also designed to offer a satisfying user experience with their precise manual focus control and durable build.
With these new lenses, Voigtlander continues to cater to photographers who seek a blend of modern optical excellence and vintage charm, ensuring that their creative vision can be realized with both reliability and style.
Cosina says the new Voigtlander APO-Lanthar 50mm f/3.5 Type I and Type II lenses will be available in August. Based on Japanese pricing, the lenses should cost around $550-650, depending on the type and material finish.