CV 35mm/2.5 screw mount vs 35mm/2.5 PII

chadmopix · 08-06-2009

Hi. I'm looking for some advice on two 35mm Voigtlander lens, specifically the 35mm/2.5 PII and the 35mm/2.5 Color Skopar screw mount to be used with an M-mount adapter.

I currently use a 21mm/4 Voigtlander and a 50mm/2 Zeiss ZM (both of which are great) on an R4A and M6 respectively, but I'm looking for something fairly compact, or at least something that doesn't protrude as much as the 50mm. The pancake seems like the obvious answer, but the screw mount 35mm seems quite compact as well, even with the built-in hood.

I haven't been able to physically handle the lenses which makes a direct comparison difficult. Also, I should mention budget is a real concern.

Can anyone advise on the actual size/depth difference between these lenses, their overall quality and sharpness, or just their experiences in general with either lens?

Thanks very much!

Larry H-L · 08-06-2009

They are all small, very close in size. (there was a P1 also).
The build quality of the PII is a notch higher, it might be slightly heavier.
All use the same lens formula, AFAIK.
Check Stephen's Cameraquest site for picture size comparison:
http://www.cameraquest.com/voigtlen.htm

mdspace · 08-06-2009

The lenses optical formula are the same, 7 elements in 5 groups.
The Color Skopar screw mount has a retro look and handle, specially the focusing lever, it includes the brass hood and the metal push on cap. This lens is thinner but large and the weight is a little bit light.
The Color Skopar PII looks modern, it doesn't include the hood and its cap is a plastic snap on.
My personal opinion is that both of them are a wonderful lenses and with the same performance, but the Color Skopar PII is more aluminium than brass to be sincere.

notturtle · 08-07-2009

I chose the pancake 2 for the ergonomics, allegedly better build and hood arrangement. Very happy, a very sharp little lens.

fixbones · 08-10-2009

i have the 35mm f2.5 in LTM and Chrome. Loving this lens!!!
Small even with the built in hood.
I am also very fond of the focusing lever but others may differ.

Both have the same optical formula.

** Just did a VERY mini review of this lens on my blog (link below) with example of the bokeh