Leica has a long history of producing some of the finest lenses in the world, and the Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH is no exception. First introduced in the 1970s, this lens is part of Leica’s renowned R-series and is known for delivering outstanding image quality. Whether you’re a professional or an enthusiast, the 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH lens has been a go-to choice for portrait photographers, capturing stunning images with creamy bokeh and exceptional sharpness.
2. History of the Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH
The Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH lens was introduced as part of the Leica R system, a series of 35mm SLR cameras and lenses. The Pre-ASPH version refers to the earlier model of this lens before the introduction of aspherical elements (ASPH) in later versions. Despite lacking these modern elements, the lens remains highly sought after due to its exceptional optical characteristics, and its performance continues to stand the test of time.
3. Key Features of the Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH
- Focal Length: 90mm
- Aperture Range: f/2 to f/16
- Lens Construction: 5 elements in 5 groups
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 1 meter
- Filter Size: 55mm
- Weight: 520g (approx.)
- Manual Focus: Smooth focusing ring for precise adjustments
4. Optical Performance
One of the standout qualities of the Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH lens is its optical performance. The lens delivers incredible sharpness, even when shot wide open at f/2. The color rendition is natural, with excellent contrast and minimal distortion. Although the lens lacks aspherical elements, it still manages to control aberrations and flare impressively well for a lens of its era.
5. Build Quality and Design
Leica lenses are known for their tank-like build quality, and the 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH is no different. The lens is crafted from high-quality materials, with an all-metal barrel and precise, well-dampened manual focus ring. The focus throw is long and smooth, allowing for fine adjustments, which is especially useful for portrait work. The compact size and solid construction make it a durable lens that can handle years of heavy use.
6. Bokeh and Depth of Field
One of the most celebrated aspects of the Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH is its beautiful bokeh. The f/2 aperture provides a shallow depth of field, making it perfect for creating subject isolation and soft, dreamy backgrounds in portraits. The lens produces a smooth, creamy bokeh with no harsh outlines, which adds a pleasant aesthetic quality to images.
7. Lens Mount Compatibility
The Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH was originally designed for the Leica R-series SLR cameras, which use the Leica R bayonet mount. While the lens is not directly compatible with modern mirrorless cameras, it can be adapted for use with digital bodies like those from Sony, Canon, and Nikon, using third-party adapters. This makes the lens a versatile option for photographers who appreciate the unique qualities of vintage glass but shoot with modern equipment.
8. Ideal Use Cases
The 90mm focal length makes this lens versatile for various photographic genres, including:
- Portrait Photography: Its medium telephoto perspective and shallow depth of field make it ideal for portraits, capturing facial details with a flattering background blur.
- Street Photography: The relatively compact size and fast aperture allow for low-light shooting and discreet street photography.
- Event Photography: With a good working distance and fast aperture, the lens is excellent for shooting events, allowing photographers to isolate subjects from busy backgrounds.
9. Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH vs. Modern Lenses
When comparing the Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH to modern lenses, it holds its own in terms of optical quality, despite its vintage status. Modern lenses may offer features like autofocus, image stabilization, and aspherical elements, but the character and rendering of the Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH are often described as unmatched. For photographers who prefer the manual focus experience and are drawn to the artistic quality of older lenses, this Leica lens is a top choice.
10. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding optical performance for a vintage lens
- Beautiful bokeh and depth of field control
- Solid build quality that lasts for decades
- Compact size for a telephoto lens
- Adaptable to modern digital cameras
Cons:
- Manual focus only, which may not be ideal for fast-paced photography
- Expensive compared to other vintage lenses
- Lacks autofocus and modern lens coatings
- Heavy compared to more modern, lightweight lenses
11. Conclusion
The Leica R 90mm f/2 Pre-ASPH lens is a classic piece of photographic equipment that continues to impress photographers with its performance, even in today’s digital age. It offers sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and a solid build, making it a great choice for portrait, street, and event photography. While it lacks modern features like autofocus, its manual focus operation and unique rendering make it a lens cherished by many. For those who appreciate the timeless qualities of Leica glass, this lens remains a worthy investment.
