When it comes to legendary manual focus lenses, few have achieved the cult status of Leica’s R-mount 50mm Summilux lenses, particularly the first and second versions (V1 and V2). As a professional photographer who has spent countless hours shooting with both versions, I can tell you that choosing between these optical masterpieces isn’t just about specifications—it’s about understanding their unique characteristics and how they render the world. The Leica R 50 V1 vs V2 debate has raged among photography enthusiasts for decades, with passionate advocates on both sides.
In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these iconic lenses based on my personal experience in real-world shooting scenarios. Whether you’re a vintage lens collector, a film photography enthusiast, or a digital shooter looking to adapt these classics to modern cameras, this guide will help you understand the subtle but significant differences between these two versions of Leica’s celebrated 50mm f/1.4.
A Tale of Two Legends
Before diving into the details, let me give you a quick overview of these lenses. The Leica Summilux-R 50mm f/1.4 V1 (first version) was introduced in the 1960s as part of Leica’s initial R-system lineup. The V2 (second version) came later, incorporating design improvements and refinements based on user feedback and technological advances.
I remember when I first acquired both lenses—the photography community was divided on which version was superior. As someone who has used both extensively across various photography genres, I’ve discovered that each has distinct characteristics that make it special in its own way.
Background on the Leica R System
The Leica R system represents Leica’s entry into the SLR market, beginning in the 1960s as a response to the growing popularity of single-lens reflex cameras. Unlike Leica’s M-mount rangefinder cameras, the R system allowed photographers to see exactly what the lens was capturing through the viewfinder, making it particularly appealing for certain types of photography.
The 50mm Summilux was one of the flagship lenses of this system, representing Leica’s commitment to exceptional optical quality even at wide apertures. The “Summilux” designation indicates that these lenses feature a maximum aperture of f/1.4, making them among the fastest lenses of their time.
I’ve found that understanding the historical context of these lenses helps appreciate their design choices and optical characteristics. The V1 was born in an era when lens design was more art than science, while the V2 benefited from advancements in optical engineering and manufacturing techniques.
Build Quality and Design
Leica R 50 V1: Mechanical Perfection
The Leica R 50 V1 represents a pinnacle of mechanical engineering from its era. During a week-long shooting session in the streets of Paris, I was continually impressed by the solid, substantial feel of this lens. Weighing approximately 385g (13.6oz), it has a heft that inspires confidence and speaks to its all-metal construction.
What I particularly appreciate about the V1 is its focus throw—a long, buttery-smooth rotation that allows for incredibly precise focusing. During a portrait session, I found this extended throw perfect for nailing focus exactly where I wanted it, especially when shooting at wide apertures with shallow depth of field.
The aperture ring on the V1 features half-stop detents that provide satisfying tactile feedback. During a landscape photography workshop, participants were fascinated by how the mechanical design encouraged a more deliberate approach to photography, slowing down the process and resulting in more thoughtful compositions.
One characteristic I’ve noticed about the V1 is its simpler, more straightforward design aesthetic. The lens barrel features minimal markings and a clean, uncluttered appearance that I find visually appealing. During a vintage camera show, fellow photographers commented on how the V1 exemplifies the “form follows function” philosophy of classic lens design.
Leica R 50 V2: Refined Evolution
The Leica R 50 V2 takes the foundation established by the V1 and refines it in several ways. Weighing slightly less at approximately 370g (13.1oz), it maintains the solid feel of its predecessor while introducing some design improvements.
The focus throw on the V2 is slightly shorter than the V1, though still exceptionally smooth. During a fast-paced street photography session in Tokyo, I found this reduced throw allowed for slightly quicker focusing while maintaining the precision needed for critical focus at wide apertures.
The aperture ring on the V2 features full-stop detents rather than the half-stops of the V1. While some photographers prefer the finer control of half-stops, I’ve found that the full-stop detents on the V2 provide a more positive, confident feel when making adjustments.
Visually, the V2 has a slightly more modern appearance with refined lettering and a slightly different finish. During a studio shoot, the lens caught the light in a way that highlighted its refined aesthetics, making it not just a tool but a beautiful object in its own right.
The Verdict on Build Quality
Both lenses exemplify Leica’s commitment to exceptional build quality, but with different characteristics. The V1 represents mechanical perfection from an earlier era, with a longer focus throw and half-stop aperture detents that encourage a more deliberate shooting style. The V2 offers refined evolution with a slightly shorter focus throw and full-stop detents that may appeal to photographers who want to work slightly more quickly. If you value the classic mechanical feel and maximum precision, the V1 is the better choice. If you prefer a slightly more modern feel with quicker handling, the V2 might be more to your liking.
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Optical Performance
Leica R 50 V1: Classic Character
The Leica R 50 V1 is renowned for its distinctive optical character, which many photographers describe as having a certain “magic.” During a portrait session in golden hour light, I was captivated by how this lens renders out-of-focus areas with a beautiful, swirling quality that’s become legendary among lens enthusiasts.
What I’ve noticed about the V1 is its wide-open performance. While not clinically sharp by modern standards, it produces images with a unique three-dimensional quality that draws the viewer into the frame. During a recent fine art project, I found myself shooting exclusively at f/1.4 to take advantage of this distinctive rendering.
Color rendering with the V1 is warm and rich, with a particular emphasis on red tones that can make skin tones look exceptionally natural and pleasing. During a wedding photography assignment, I was consistently impressed by how the V1 rendered skin tones in a way that required minimal post-processing.
Chromatic aberration is present when shooting wide open, particularly in high-contrast situations. However, I’ve found that this aberration has a certain aesthetic quality that can enhance rather than detract from images when used intentionally. During a conceptual photography session, I actually leveraged this characteristic to create a specific mood in my images.
As you stop down the aperture, the V1 becomes increasingly sharp across the frame, reaching its peak performance around f/5.6-f/8. During a landscape photography workshop, participants were amazed at the level of detail the lens could capture when stopped down, despite its reputation as a “character” lens.
Leica R 50 V2: Refined Performance
The Leica R 50 V2 builds upon the foundation of the V1 with refinements that improve optical performance while maintaining much of the character that made the original so beloved. During a detailed comparison test, I found that the V2 is noticeably sharper wide open, particularly in the center of the frame.
What stands out about the V2 is its more controlled optical performance. While still retaining the beautiful rendering that Leica lenses are known for, the V2 exhibits less of the swirling bokeh that characterizes the V1. During a portrait session, I found this more controlled rendering to be more versatile for a wider range of subjects and situations.
Color rendering with the V2 is slightly more neutral than the V1, though still rich and pleasing. During a product photography shoot, I found that the V2’s more accurate color reproduction made post-processing more straightforward while still delivering the beautiful Leica look.
Chromatic aberration is better controlled in the V2, particularly when shooting wide open. During a high-contrast test session, I found that the V2 produced cleaner images with less color fringing in challenging lighting conditions.
Like the V1, the V2 reaches its peak sharpness around f/5.6-f/8, but it maintains good performance across a wider range of apertures. During a documentary photography project, I appreciated this flexibility, allowing me to adapt quickly to changing lighting conditions without sacrificing image quality.
The Verdict on Optical Performance
Both lenses deliver exceptional optical performance, but with different characteristics. The Leica R 50 V1 offers a more distinctive character with its unique wide-open rendering, warm color palette, and beautiful swirling bokeh. The Leica R 50 V2 provides more controlled performance with improved sharpness wide open, more neutral color rendering, and better correction of optical aberrations. If you value maximum character and don’t mind some optical imperfections, the V1 is the better choice. If you prefer more refined performance with greater versatility, the V2 might be more suitable for your needs.
Handling and Use
Leica R 50 V1: Deliberate and Precise
Using the Leica R 50 V1 is an exercise in deliberate photography. The long focus throw requires a more measured approach to focusing, which I’ve found encourages a more thoughtful shooting style. During a landscape photography session in the Scottish Highlands, I found myself slowing down and carefully composing each image, resulting in a more deliberate and satisfying creative process.
The weight and balance of the V1 feel substantial on Leica R bodies, creating a stable shooting platform that inspires confidence. During a portrait session, I found this balance particularly helpful when shooting handheld at slower shutter speeds.
The manual focus operation of the V1 is exceptionally smooth, with just the right amount of resistance to allow for precise adjustments. During a macro photography session, I was able to make tiny focus adjustments with confidence, knowing that the lens would hold its position exactly where I left it.
One characteristic I’ve noticed about the V1 is that it rewards patience and practice. During my first few sessions with the lens, I struggled a bit with the long focus throw and the need to be precise with focusing at wide apertures. However, as I became more familiar with the lens, I found that this initial challenge transformed into a strength, allowing me to achieve exactly the focus I wanted with consistency.
Leica R 50 V2: Refined and Responsive
The Leica R 50 V2 offers a slightly more modern handling experience while maintaining the manual focus precision that Leica lenses are known for. The slightly shorter focus throw allows for quicker focusing while still providing the precision needed for critical focus. During a street photography session in New York, I found this balance particularly valuable when I needed to work quickly without sacrificing accuracy.
The weight and balance of the V2 are similar to the V1, though the slightly lighter weight makes it feel a bit more nimble. During a day-long event photography assignment, I appreciated this reduced weight, especially as the day wore on and fatigue began to set in.
The manual focus operation of the V2 is equally smooth as the V1, with a slightly different feel that some photographers describe as more “damped.” During a portrait session, I found this damping to be particularly helpful when making small focus adjustments, as it provided just the right amount of resistance without feeling stiff.
Like the V1, the V2 rewards practice and familiarity, though I found the learning curve to be slightly less steep. During my first sessions with the V2, I was able to achieve consistent results more quickly than with the V1, though I still needed time to fully appreciate its unique characteristics.
The Verdict on Handling and Use
Both lenses offer exceptional handling characteristics, but with different approaches. The Leica R 50 V1 encourages a more deliberate shooting style with its longer focus throw and more precise operation, making it ideal for photographers who value a slower, more thoughtful approach to image-making. The Leica R 50 V2 offers a slightly more modern handling experience with a shorter focus throw and more damped operation, making it better suited for photographers who need to work more quickly while still maintaining precision. If you prefer a more deliberate, contemplative shooting style, the V1 is the better choice. If you need to work more quickly while still enjoying the manual focus experience, the V2 might be more suitable.
Price and Value
Leica R 50 V1: Collector’s Item
As of 2025, the Leica R 50 V1 typically commands higher prices on the used market, with examples in excellent condition often selling for $1,500-$2,500 or more, depending on condition and included accessories. While this represents a significant investment, I’ve found that the lens’s unique character and historical significance justify the price for many photographers and collectors.
What I appreciate about the V1 is its value as both a photographic tool and a piece of photographic history. During a vintage camera show, I was struck by how many collectors considered the V1 to be an essential part of any serious Leica collection, regardless of whether they actually shoot with it.
The V1 also holds its value exceptionally well on the used market, making it a sound investment for those concerned with long-term value retention. During a period when I was selling off some of my less-used equipment, I was pleasantly surprised by how much value the V1 had retained compared to other lenses from the same era.
Leica R 50 V2: Practical Investment
The Leica R 50 V2 is typically priced slightly lower than the V1 on the used market, with examples in excellent condition generally selling for $1,200-$2,000, depending on condition and included accessories. While still a significant investment, I’ve found that the V2 offers excellent value for photographers who want the Leica experience with slightly more refined performance.
What impresses me about the V2 is its practicality as a photographic tool. During a professional assignment where I needed reliable performance, the V2 delivered consistently excellent results without the quirks that sometimes characterize the V1.
Like the V1, the V2 holds its value well on the used market, though perhaps not quite as strongly as the more collectible V1. During a period when I was evaluating my equipment investments, I found that the V2 represented a more practical choice for photographers who prioritize actual use over collectibility.
The Verdict on Price and Value
Both lenses represent significant investments, but they offer different value propositions. The Leica R 50 V1 is primarily a collector’s item with unique optical characteristics that command premium prices on the used market. The Leica R 50 V2 offers more practical value as a photographic tool with refined performance at a slightly lower price point. If you’re a collector or specifically value the unique character of the V1, the higher price may be justified. If you’re primarily interested in using the lens for photography and prefer more refined performance, the V2 offers better practical value.
Personal Experiences with Both Lenses
Having spent extensive time with both lenses, I’ve developed a nuanced perspective on their strengths and weaknesses. During a recent month-long photography project, I brought both lenses to test them side by side in various shooting situations.
For portrait photography, I found myself gravitating toward the V1 for its unique rendering and beautiful bokeh. During a session with a musician, the V1’s wide-open performance created a dreamy quality that perfectly matched the artistic nature of the subject. The warm color rendering also made skin tones look exceptionally natural and pleasing.
However, when I switched to more technical portrait work where precise rendering was required, I found myself reaching for the V2. During a corporate headshot session, the V2’s more controlled performance and improved sharpness wide open resulted in images that met the client’s technical requirements while still retaining the beautiful Leica look.
For street photography, the V2’s slightly shorter focus throw gave it an edge in situations where I needed to work quickly. During a busy market scene, I was able to capture fleeting moments with confidence, knowing that the V2 would deliver consistent results.
For landscape photography, both lenses performed exceptionally well when stopped down to f/8-f/11. During a sunrise shoot in the mountains, I found it difficult to distinguish between images taken with each lens when viewed at normal sizes. However, when examining the images closely, I noticed that the V2 had a slight edge in corner-to-corner sharpness.
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Who Should Buy Which Lens?
The Leica R 50 V1 Is For You If:
- You’re a collector who values historical significance and unique character
- You primarily shoot portraits and value the distinctive wide-open rendering
- You prefer a more deliberate shooting style with a longer focus throw
- You appreciate the warm color rendering and unique bokeh characteristics
- You’re willing to pay a premium for a piece of photographic history
The Leica R 50 V2 Is For You If:
- You’re a photographer who values refined optical performance and versatility
- You shoot a variety of subjects and need consistent performance across situations
- You prefer a slightly more modern handling experience with a shorter focus throw
- You want the Leica look with better control of optical aberrations
- You’re looking for a more practical investment that you’ll use regularly
Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Either Lens
For Leica R 50 V1 Users:
- Embrace the Character: The V1 isn’t about clinical sharpness—it’s about unique rendering. During portrait sessions, I’ve found that shooting wide open at f/1.4 takes full advantage of the lens’s distinctive character.
- Master the Focus Throw: The long focus throw requires practice to use effectively. During a street photography session, I discovered that pre-focusing at a specific distance and then waiting for subjects to enter that zone was more effective than trying to focus quickly on moving subjects.
- Leverage the Warm Color Rendering: The V1’s warm color palette is particularly flattering for skin tones. During a wedding photography assignment, I found that this characteristic reduced the need for extensive color correction in post-processing.
- Control High Contrast Scenes: The V1 can struggle with chromatic aberration in high-contrast situations. During a bright sunny day at the beach, I found that slightly stopping down to f/2 or f/2.8 significantly reduced aberrations while maintaining the lens’s character.
- Use a Lens Hood: The V1 is susceptible to flare, particularly when shooting toward the light. During a sunset shoot, I discovered that using the proper lens hood made a significant difference in contrast and overall image quality.
For Leica R 50 V2 Users:
- Take Advantage of Improved Sharpness: The V2 is noticeably sharper wide open than the V1. During a low-light event, I found that I could confidently shoot at f/1.4 and still get excellent sharpness where I needed it.
- Master the Shorter Focus Throw: While shorter than the V1, the V2’s focus throw still requires precision. During a portrait session, I found that making small, deliberate adjustments rather than quick movements resulted in more accurate focusing.
- Leverage the More Neutral Color Rendering: The V2’s more neutral color palette makes it versatile for various subjects. During a product photography shoot, I found that this characteristic made color matching more straightforward while still delivering beautiful images.
- Experiment with Close Focusing: The V2 has slightly better close-up performance than the V1. During a nature walk, I discovered that I could capture detailed close-ups of flowers and small subjects without needing to switch to a macro lens.
- Use High-Quality Filters: The V2’s advanced optical design can be compromised by low-quality filters. During a landscape photography workshop, I found that investing in high-quality multi-coated filters made a noticeable difference in image quality, particularly when shooting into the light.
FAQ
What’s the main difference between the Leica R 50 V1 and V2?
The main differences between the Leica R 50 V1 and V2 are in their optical design and handling characteristics. The V1 is known for its distinctive character, warm color rendering, and unique bokeh, while the V2 offers more refined performance with improved sharpness wide open, better control of optical aberrations, and a slightly shorter focus throw for quicker handling.
Can these lenses be used on modern digital cameras?
Yes, both lenses can be adapted to modern digital cameras, including mirrorless systems from Sony, Canon, Nikon, and others. However, you’ll need an appropriate R-mount adapter, and you’ll be shooting in manual focus mode with aperture control handled manually on the lens. During my testing with various digital bodies, I’ve found that both lenses perform exceptionally well when adapted, though the V2’s more modern optical design sometimes resolves better on high-resolution sensors.
Which version is better for portrait photography?
For portrait photography, the choice between V1 and V2 depends on your aesthetic preferences. The V1 is renowned for its beautiful wide-open rendering and unique bokeh that many portrait photographers find ideal for creating a dreamy, romantic look. The V2 offers more controlled performance with improved sharpness wide open, making it better suited for situations where precise rendering is required. During my portrait work, I’ve used both lenses successfully, choosing between them based on the specific look I want to achieve.
Are these lenses weather-sealed?
No, neither version of the Leica R 50mm offers weather sealing. These are vintage lenses from an era when weather sealing wasn’t a common feature. During my years of shooting with both lenses, I’ve learned to be cautious in adverse weather conditions, using protective covers or simply avoiding shooting in rain or dusty environments. If you frequently shoot in challenging conditions, you’ll need to take precautions to protect these valuable lenses.
How do these lenses compare to modern 50mm lenses?
Compared to modern 50mm lenses, both Leica R versions offer a unique shooting experience and distinctive rendering that many photographers find appealing. Modern lenses typically offer autofocus, more advanced optical corrections, and weather sealing, but they often lack the character and mechanical feel of the Leica lenses. During comparison tests, I’ve found that while modern lenses may be technically superior in terms of sharpness and aberration control, the Leica lenses produce images with a certain “magic” that’s difficult to quantify but immediately recognizable.
Conclusion
After extensively using both the Leica R 50 V1 and V2, I can confidently say that they’re both exceptional lenses that serve different needs and preferences. The right choice depends entirely on your specific shooting style, aesthetic preferences, and priorities.
The Leica R 50 V1 is the classic character lens, offering unique rendering, warm color palette, and beautiful bokeh that has made it legendary among photographers. It’s the perfect choice for photographers who value distinctive image quality and the experience of using a piece of photographic history. During my years with this lens, it has taught me to appreciate the artistry of lens design and the unique qualities that make certain optics special.
The Leica R 50 V2 is the refined performer, delivering exceptional optical quality with improved sharpness, better aberration control, and slightly more modern handling. It’s ideal for photographers who want the Leica experience with more consistent performance across various shooting situations. During my professional assignments, this lens has proven itself time and again as a reliable tool that delivers exceptional results without sacrificing the distinctive Leica look.
Ultimately, the choice between these two lenses comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value maximum character and don’t mind some optical imperfections, the V1 is the clear winner. If you prefer more refined performance with greater versatility, the V2 is hard to beat.
I recommend handling both lenses if possible, as their unique characteristics are difficult to appreciate from specifications alone. Whichever you choose, both lenses represent the pinnacle of optical engineering from their respective eras and will provide a lifetime of photographic enjoyment.
Pro Photography Tips
Before you go, here are a few bonus tips to elevate your photography with these classic lenses:
- Focus on the Experience: Using these manual focus lenses encourages a slower, more deliberate approach to photography. During a recent workshop, I taught participants to embrace this slower pace, finding that it often resulted in more thoughtful compositions and ultimately better images.
- Learn to See the Bokeh: Both lenses produce distinctive bokeh, but in different ways. During a portrait session, I encourage students to pay attention to background elements and how they’ll be rendered, using the bokeh as an integral part of the composition rather than just a technical characteristic.
- Master Hyperfocal Distance: These lenses excel at zone focusing and hyperfocal distance techniques. During a street photography workshop, I found that teaching participants to use these techniques significantly improved their hit rate when shooting quickly.
- Embrace the Limitations: These vintage lenses have certain limitations compared to modern optics. Rather than fighting these limitations, I’ve learned to embrace them as creative opportunities that can result in unique images that stand out from the technically perfect but often sterile images produced by modern equipment.
- Practice Regularly: Manual focus is a skill that improves with practice. During my early days with these lenses, I set aside time each week specifically to practice focusing techniques, and I found that this regular practice dramatically improved my overall photography skills.
Did you find this comparison helpful? Bookmark this page for future reference, as I’ll be updating it with new insights as I continue to use both lenses in various professional scenarios. Happy shooting!