Leica has released a new ultra-wide lens for the L-Mount. The new 14-24mm is a constant f/2.8 lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. As an L-Mount lens, it will work with Leica, LUMIX, and SIGMA cameras as well as the newly announced Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K. The new Super-Vario-Elmarit is Leica’s widest SL full-frame lens and one of the widest lenses across the L-Mount. Let’s take a closer look! Build and optics As expected from a premium manufacturer, the new Leica Super-Vario-Elmarit-SL 14-24mm f/2.8 ASPH. is well-built. Aluminum construction will keep the lens tough and light (855g). The bulbous front element will extend during zoom but it moves inside the metal hood so a constant length of 131mm is maintained. Those of you using a steady shot may experience some weight shift since the front element is quite massive. The lens is sealed against harsh conditions to an unspecified extent. Focus is internal, quick, and silent, driven by Leica’s “Dual Synchro Drive AF”. Leica Super-Vario-Elmarit-SL 14-24mm f/2.8 ASPH. on a Leica SL2s. Image credit: Leica The optical formula consists of 18 elements in 13 groups. Three aspherical elements are included (hence the ASPH.). The 11 aperture blades will maintain relatively circular bokeh at narrower aperture settings. While not a macro lens, it will focus down to 28cm (measured from the sensor), so some nice ultra-wide close-ups are possible. The huge front element won’t allow threaded filters, but is coated with a protective “Hydrophobe Aqua-Dura coating”. So is the rear element. A...
Published By: CineD - Monday, 23 October, 2023