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LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-S 30-90 MM F/3.5-5.6 ASPH Press release

Guy Mancuso

Administrator, Instructor
PRESS RELEASE
NEW: LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-S 30-90 MM F/3.5-5.6 ASPH.
The first zoom lens for the S-System with exceptional imaging quality and low weight
Solms, Germany (September 17, 2012) –Leica Camera presents the first zoom lens for the Leica S medium format system with the Leica Vario-Elmar-S 30-90 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. The range of focal lengths covered is equivalent to that of a 24-72 mm zoom for 35 mm format, providing S-System users access to a lens that possesses the flexibility to cover the majority of photographic needs and simultaneously delivering the outstanding performance of prime lenses. Photographers can now avoid time-consuming lens changes in many areas of photography, from landscape to portrait. The lens provides the opportunity to concentrate more on subjects when time is a critical factor.
Presenting elaborate mechanical and optical construction, the new Leica Vario-Elmar-S 30-90 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. is also extremely compact and light, with a weight of only 1,345 grams / 3 lbs. (with lens hood).
The lens construction is based on 14 lenses assembled in four groups. For a zoom construction, the lens achieves extraordinarily high contrast rendition and maximum resolution wide open thanks to the use of nine lenses manufactured from glasses with anomalous partial dispersion, three of which are fluoride lenses with particularly low dispersion. Two aspherical surfaces on the rearmost lens element and one on the front lens of the second group reduce monochromatic aberrations to a minimum and ensure that imaging performance constantly remains high at close focusing distances.
As with the prime lenses of the Leica S-System, the Leica Vario-Elmar-S 30-90 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. is distinguished by rugged, enduring design and construction that guarantees years of dependability, even with frequent use. The lens features an extremely robust bayonet mount and is fully sealed against dust and spray, ensuring maximum dependability even under the harshest shooting conditions.
Guaranteeing uncompromising imaging quality for all areas of photography, the current S-System portfolio offers a total of eight lenses (five of which will also be available in CS versions with a central shutter).
The lens is supplied complete with a dedicated lens hood specially optimized for its optical system. The Leica Vario-Elmar-S 30-90 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. will be available from selected Leica dealers, including the Leica Store Washington DC, beginning in November 2012.



Technical data
LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-S 30-90 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH.
Lens:
Extremely fast zoom lens for Leica S-Cameras, with an extended intermediate range of focal lengths and three aspherical lens surfaces for outstanding imaging performance
Compatible cameras:
All Leica S-Models
Angle of view
(diagonal, horizontal, vertical):
At 30 mm: approx. 81.5°, 73.1°, 51°
At 90 mm: approx. 34°, 28.5°, 19.5°
Approximates to 24-72 mm focal length in 35 mm format
Optical Design
Number of lenses / groups:
14 / 11
Aspherical surfaces:
3
Position of entrance pupil
(from the bayonet):
At 30 / 90 mm: 39.6 / 91.3 mm
Focusing
Working range:
0.65 m to infinity
Scales:
Combined meter / feet graduation
Smallest object field:
At 30 mm: approx. 514 mm x 771 mm
At 90 mm: approx. 194 mm x 291 mm
Largest reproduction ratio:
At 30 mm: 1:17.1
At 90 mm: 1/6.5
Apertures
Setting / function:
Electronically controlled iris, setting with the camera click wheel control, half-stop settings possible
Smallest aperture:
32
Bayonet:
Leica S quick-change bayonet with contact strip for all Leica S-Models
Filter mount / lens hood:
Outer bayonet mount for lens hood (included),
inner threaded mount for E95 filters, non-rotating filter mount
Finish:
Black anodized
Dimensions and weight
Overall length to bayonet flange:
Approx. 114 mm / 4.5 inches (without lens hood) (approx. 145 mm / 4.5 inches with lens hood)
Maximum diameter:
Approx. 101 mm / 4 inches (without lens hood) (approx. 150 mm / 5 inches with lens hood)
Weight:
Approx. 1275 g / 45 oz without lens hood
 
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