Zeiss ZM 50mm f/1.5 C-Sonnar T*

2010-02-15 • SEND FEEDBACK •
Related: distortion, Leica, Leica M, optics, Zeiss Lenses, Zeiss ZM, Zeiss ZM 50mm f/1.5 C-Sonnar

The Zeiss ZM 50mm f/1.5 C-Sonnar (about $1117) is a classic alternative to the 50mm f/2 Planar.

The 50/1.5 C-Sonnar is a classic design favored by some for portraits and its dreamy look when shot in the f/1.5 - f/2 range, as well as its classic (historical) look long appreciated in photography.

The compact design is characterized by uncorrected spherical aberration resulting in some focus shift, as well as wave-type field curvature. This is not a lens to look technically excellent, but rather one that offers unsual artistic qualities.

Use if this lens must be learned: its focusing characteristics (eg focus shift) can result in soft images if not understood! Get it only if you understand these issues; it’s an artists lens that takes some skill and appreciation to use well.

For in-depth coverage of the Leica M9 and lenses, please subscribe to our Guide to Leica.

Image quality

Not yet tested.

MTF charts suggest that this lens offers significant focus shift and field curvature: expect a dreamy look at f/1.5, and be sure to understand focus shift, which is discussed in more detail in DAP.

The T* coatings and 6 elements promise outstanding flare control.

Specifications

Per Zeiss. See the datasheet.

Distortion

The wave distortion is mostly pincushion, reversing to barrel distortion near frame edges.

However, the total distortion is only about 0.5%, unsually low for a 50mm lens, and thus likely to go unnoticed with the majority of images.

Distortion of the Zeiss ZM 50mm f/1.5 C-Sonnar

Conclusions

Not yet tested.