Coated "Black Dial" f/22 Elmar 50/3.5

[Arthur]

Hello.

With the exception the of 'red' versus 'black' color, are the 'red' and 'black' f/22 Elmar 50/3.5 the 'same' lens? I have read that they are but it was just a casual reference.

Thanks. Arthur

[FPjohn]

Hello:

They differ as I understand in the formulation of the glass in some elements.

Perhaps someone with exact knowledge can help.

yours
FPJ

[xayraa33]

here is a small write up on the red scale Elmar.

http://www.imx.nl/photo/lenstest/elmar_3550_red_scale.html

[Arthur]

Thank you for your help.

My f/22, black dial Elmar 50/3.5, SN 941XXX, is remarkably sharp even at f/22! And, I have only read good things about the f/22 red dial.

I would find a direct comparison between the black dial and the red dial versions to be interesting as Puts makes several interesting points.

Perhaps Raid would be interested... Arthur

[FPjohn]

http://web.telia.com/~u32008343/ltm.htm

http://flickr.com/photos/40755145@N00/sets/72157603889454015/

[LeicaTom]

The only difference between them is red from black paint and about a $225 premium over normal f3.5 50mm Elmar prices and they were produced only 3 short years - 1954 to 1957

The "Red Scale" has been a collectors item for about 25 years now.......for match up`s on Leica IIIFRDST cameras

Tom

PS: "uncoated" pre 1946 f3.5 50mm Elmar`s are really nice lenses, that carry that real "Leica Glow/Feel" and can make some great classic looking images especially when stopped down.....