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It's not the concensus. Take a look atSeems to be the consensus. Even with the Panasonic adapter ($140) it's still almost $350 cheaper than the Leica 45mm f2.8. But, no AF. Given it uses MF, you could use a $35 generic 4/3rds to micro 4/3rds adapter.
I've used the lens. IMO, it's not terrific for a macro lens. More like a good prime lens with extension tubes added. But then maybe there is sample variation, I only used one.
I've never seen the Panasonic for 800.00.I've used them both, extensively. Both are superb performing lenses ... on that front, you can't go wrong with either.
The Macro-Elmarit-DG 45mm f/2.8 ASPH OIS is $800. The ZD 50mm f/2 ED cost me $450 plus $120 for the DMW-MA1 adapter or $570. That's a $230 difference.
For a Panasonic G1/GH1/GF1, you give up autofocus, image stabilization, 1:1 magnification, compactness and internal focusing, a focus limiter, and smoother operating manual focusing with the ZD 50. On a G2 or G10, it will autofocus but pretty slowly. Lack of autofocus also means lack of face detection, follow focus, etc. You do gain a stop in speed.
Depending on what's important to you, that $230 price premium can be well worth it.
As I said, I have used them both extensively. I own the ZD50 and have borrowed a friends ME45 quite a lot. I plan to buy one soon as I can afford it, the ZD50 I need for the SLRs, the ME45 is a better lens for use with the G1.
When last I looked,it was listed on amazon.com for $799.95, but that was a while ago admittedly. It wad about the time I was deciding to buy the 50mm because I needed it for my SLRs more than I needed the 45mm for the G1.I've never seen the Panasonic for 800.00.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&N=0&Q=&Ntt=panasonic+45+2.8&A=endecaSearch