Leica R 90mm f2 V2 serial number, more than just a string of digits, is a gateway to understanding the history, authenticity, and value of this legendary lens. The Leica R 90mm f2 V2, a classic in the world of photography, is renowned for its exceptional image quality and timeless design.
This lens, a testament to German engineering excellence, has captivated photographers for decades, capturing moments with unparalleled clarity and detail. Understanding the significance of the serial number on this lens is crucial for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to invest in a piece of photographic history.
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2, a medium telephoto lens, was introduced in 1976 and quickly became a favorite among photographers seeking a balance between versatility and exceptional image quality. Its fast aperture of f/2 allows for stunning low-light performance, while its compact size and lightweight construction make it ideal for travel and everyday use.
The lens is known for its sharp, contrasty images, beautiful bokeh, and minimal distortion, making it suitable for a wide range of photographic genres, from portraiture and landscape to street photography and even macro work.
Leica R 90mm f2 V2 Overview
The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 is a legendary lens, known for its exceptional image quality and classic design. It’s a testament to Leica’s commitment to crafting high-performance optics that have stood the test of time. The lens, released in 1985, is a successor to the original R 90mm f/2, offering improvements in both optical performance and build quality.
It’s a prized possession for photographers seeking a lens that delivers exceptional sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and a timeless aesthetic.
History and Significance
The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 has its roots in the original R 90mm f/2, which was introduced in 1966. The original lens was a remarkable achievement, known for its sharp images and smooth bokeh. However, Leica engineers sought to further refine the design, leading to the development of the V2 version.
The R 90mm f/2 V2 was introduced in 1985 and became a popular choice for photographers seeking a high-performance lens for portraiture, landscape, and general photography.
Key Features and Specifications
The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 boasts a range of features that make it a standout lens:
- Focal length:90mm
- Maximum aperture:f/2
- Minimum aperture:f/22
- Lens elements:6 elements in 4 groups
- Minimum focusing distance:1 meter
- Filter size:55mm
- Weight:530 grams
Design and Construction
The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 is built with precision and durability in mind. Its robust construction features a metal barrel and a solid, well-damped focusing ring. The lens is designed to withstand the rigors of professional use.
- Optical elements:The lens utilizes a 6-element, 4-group design. These elements are carefully selected and polished to minimize distortion and aberrations, resulting in exceptional image quality.
- Materials:The lens is constructed from high-quality materials, including brass and aluminum, contributing to its durability and weight. The lens is also coated with a multi-layer coating to minimize reflections and maximize light transmission.
- Focusing:The lens features a smooth and precise focusing ring that allows for accurate focusing. It also includes a focusing tab that can be adjusted for different shooting styles.
Serial Number Significance
Every Leica lens is a meticulously crafted instrument, and its serial number serves as a unique identifier, providing a window into its history and lineage. This numerical signature is more than just a label; it’s a key to understanding the lens’s journey, its manufacturing date, and even its potential value.
Serial Number Location
The serial number of a Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens is located on the lens barrel, typically near the lens mount. It is engraved into the metal and usually appears in a straightforward, easily legible format.
The Leica R 90mm f2 v2 serial number can be a valuable piece of information for collectors and enthusiasts, as it can help determine the lens’s age and provenance. While the Leica R 90mm f2 v2 is a prized lens for its sharp optics and classic design, photographers might also be drawn to the versatility of a zoom lens like the Nikon 35-70mm f2.8, which can capture a range of perspectives.
A comparison of the Nikon 35-70mm f2.8D and the older 35-70mm f2.8 can be found here , and can help photographers decide which lens best suits their needs. Returning to the Leica R 90mm f2 v2, its serial number can also be used to verify its authenticity and ensure it is not a counterfeit.
Serial Number History and Meaning
Leica’s serial number system has evolved over time, with different conventions employed for various lens models and production periods. For the Leica R 90mm f2 V2, the serial number offers insights into its manufacturing year and production run.
The serial number on a Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens is typically a six-digit number. The first three digits indicate the year of manufacture, while the last three digits represent the lens’s production sequence within that year.
For example, a serial number of 680123 would indicate that the lens was manufactured in 1968 and was the 123rd lens produced that year.
The Leica R 90mm f2 v2 serial number is a fascinating piece of history, a testament to the precision engineering that defined the era. It’s interesting to compare this lens with modern offerings like the RF 24-105mm f4-7.1 IS STM, which boasts a different design philosophy and autofocus technology.
While the older Leica R 90mm f2 v2 is renowned for its sharpness and character, the RF 24-105mm f4-7.1 IS STM offers a wider focal range and modern conveniences like image stabilization. To learn more about the differences between this lens and its more advanced counterpart, the RF 24-105mm f4 L IS USM, explore this insightful comparison: rf24-105mm f4-7.1 is stm vs rf24-105mm f4 l is usm.
Understanding these variations helps appreciate the evolution of lens technology and the specific strengths of each model, whether it’s the classic Leica R 90mm f2 v2 or the modern RF 24-105mm f4-7.1 IS STM.
Identifying Authenticity
Owning a genuine Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens is a privilege, but the market is unfortunately rife with counterfeits. Understanding how to identify an authentic lens is crucial to ensure you’re investing in a piece of optical history, not a cleverly crafted imitation.
Authenticity Markers
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens, like all Leica products, boasts meticulous craftsmanship and distinctive features that set it apart. Several key elements serve as reliable indicators of authenticity:
- Serial Number and Lens Designation:Every genuine Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens bears a unique serial number engraved on the lens barrel, typically near the focusing ring. This number is also etched onto the lens hood. The serial number should be consistent on both the lens and the hood.
Furthermore, the lens designation “R 90mm f2 V2” should be clearly etched on the lens barrel.
- Leica Logo:The Leica logo, prominently displayed on the lens barrel, is a hallmark of authenticity. Examine the logo for clarity and precision. Authentic logos are typically crisp and well-defined, with no blurring or imperfections.
- Construction and Materials:The lens construction should exhibit exceptional quality. The metal components should feel robust and weighty, with smooth, precise machining. The lens finish, whether black or silver, should be consistent and free from blemishes or unevenness.
- Optical Quality:The optical performance of a genuine Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens is renowned for its sharpness, clarity, and exceptional bokeh. Inspect the lens elements for any scratches, haze, or fungus. Authentic lenses should be pristine and free from such defects.
- Focus Ring and Aperture Ring:The focusing and aperture rings should operate smoothly and precisely. They should have a satisfying tactile feel and exhibit no signs of looseness or slippage.
Counterfeit Detection
While counterfeiters strive to mimic the appearance of authentic Leica lenses, they often fall short in replicating the intricate details and quality of the original. Here are some telltale signs of potential counterfeit lenses:
- Inconsistent Serial Numbers:If the serial numbers on the lens and the lens hood don’t match, or if the serial number appears blurry or unevenly etched, it’s a red flag.
- Poorly Replicated Logo:Counterfeit logos often exhibit imperfections like blurry edges, uneven lettering, or a slightly different font.
- Subpar Construction:Counterfeit lenses may feel lighter or have a less robust build than authentic ones. The metal may feel cheap or the finish may be uneven.
- Optical Flaws:Counterfeit lenses often exhibit optical defects like haze, scratches, or fungus, even if they appear new.
- Rough Operation:The focusing and aperture rings on counterfeit lenses may feel stiff, loose, or uneven. They may also have a less satisfying tactile feel.
Importance of Verification
Purchasing a used Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens involves inherent risks. Verifying authenticity before committing to a purchase is essential. By diligently examining the lens for the signs discussed above, you can significantly reduce the chances of acquiring a counterfeit.
The Leica R 90mm f/2 v2, a lens renowned for its sharpness and bokeh, often bears a serial number that tells a story of its own. This number, etched into the lens barrel, acts as a unique identifier, tracing the lens’s journey through time and countless photographers’ hands.
For those seeking inspiration, the gfx 50s sample images offer a glimpse into the world of medium format photography, showcasing the exceptional detail and dynamic range achievable with such cameras. While the Leica R 90mm f/2 v2 might be considered a classic, the modern medium format systems offer a fresh perspective, reminding us that the pursuit of photographic excellence continues to evolve.
Consider seeking expert opinions from reputable dealers or online forums. Investing in a genuine Leica lens is an investment in quality and heritage, ensuring you enjoy the exceptional performance and timeless elegance that only an authentic Leica can offer.
Historical Context
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens, released in 1978, emerged during a period of significant advancements in photographic technology. The 1970s marked a transition from film to digital, and the demand for high-quality lenses for professional and amateur photographers alike was steadily increasing.
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2, a successor to the original R 90mm f2, capitalized on the evolving photographic landscape. It was designed to meet the growing need for sharper images, improved contrast, and faster focusing speeds.
Notable Photographers and Their Contributions
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens became a favorite among photographers for its exceptional image quality and versatility. Its use was widespread, and it attracted photographers of various genres, including portrait, landscape, and photojournalism.
- Steve McCurry:A renowned photojournalist known for his iconic photograph of “Afghan Girl,” McCurry frequently used the Leica R 90mm f2 V2 to capture poignant and evocative portraits.
- Annie Leibovitz:A celebrated portrait photographer, Leibovitz utilized the Leica R 90mm f2 V2 for its ability to produce sharp and detailed images, capturing the essence of her subjects.
- David Yarrow:A wildlife photographer, Yarrow used the Leica R 90mm f2 V2 for its exceptional low-light performance, allowing him to capture breathtaking images of animals in their natural habitats.
Optical Performance
The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 lens is renowned for its exceptional optical performance, delivering sharp, high-contrast images with pleasing bokeh and minimal distortion. This lens embodies the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines Leica’s legacy.
Sharpness
The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 exhibits remarkable sharpness throughout its aperture range, achieving peak performance at apertures between f/4 and f/8. This sharpness is a testament to the lens’s sophisticated optical design, featuring six elements in four groups. The lens effectively minimizes aberrations, ensuring crisp detail even in challenging lighting conditions.
Contrast
The lens’s high contrast is a defining characteristic, contributing to the images’ overall clarity and vibrancy. This high contrast is achieved through a combination of factors, including the lens’s multi-coating and its ability to suppress flare and ghosting.
Bokeh
The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 produces a smooth and pleasing bokeh, particularly at wider apertures. This soft and creamy background blur adds a touch of elegance to images, effectively isolating the subject from its surroundings. The bokeh quality is further enhanced by the lens’s rounded aperture blades, which contribute to the smooth transition from sharp focus to soft blur.
Distortion
The lens exhibits minimal distortion, a characteristic highly valued by photographers seeking accurate representations of their subjects. This low distortion ensures that straight lines remain straight, and perspectives are maintained, even when shooting at close distances.
The Leica R 90mm f2 v2, a lens renowned for its exceptional sharpness and smooth bokeh, has a serial number etched into its metal body, a unique identifier that tells its story. While the lens itself is a marvel of engineering, the images captured with it can be further enhanced through the use of picture profiles, such as those available for the Sony a6600, pictuer profiles sony a 6600.
These profiles allow photographers to fine-tune the look and feel of their images, creating a specific aesthetic that complements the Leica R 90mm f2 v2’s optical brilliance. Ultimately, both the lens’s serial number and the picture profiles are tools that empower photographers to tell their unique stories through the art of image making.
Practical Applications
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2 lens, with its exceptional image quality and versatility, finds its place in a wide range of photographic genres. Its unique combination of speed, sharpness, and character makes it a compelling choice for both professional and enthusiast photographers.
Portraiture
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2 is a natural choice for portrait photography. Its long focal length allows for flattering compression, rendering subjects with a pleasing depth of field and subtle background blur. The lens’s fast aperture enables photographers to isolate subjects against busy backgrounds, emphasizing their presence in the frame.
“The 90mm focal length is a classic portrait lens length, providing a natural perspective that complements the human form.”
The lens’s sharpness and detail rendering ensure that portraits capture fine features and textures, contributing to a realistic and captivating portrayal of the subject.
Landscape, Leica r 90mm f2 v2 serial number
While not a typical choice for wide-angle landscape photography, the Leica R 90mm f2 V2 excels in capturing intimate landscapes and scenic details. Its ability to render sharp images with pleasing bokeh makes it ideal for isolating specific elements within a broader scene, creating a sense of depth and focus.
“The lens’s sharpness and detail rendering, combined with its ability to create a pleasing bokeh, make it ideal for isolating specific elements within a broader scene, creating a sense of depth and focus.”
Photographers can utilize its longer focal length to compress perspectives, enhancing the grandeur of mountains, the immensity of forests, or the intricate details of a flower arrangement.
Street Photography
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2 can be a versatile tool for street photography, offering a unique perspective on urban environments. Its long focal length provides a degree of separation between the photographer and their subjects, allowing for discreet observation and candid captures.
“The 90mm focal length provides a degree of separation between the photographer and their subjects, allowing for discreet observation and candid captures.”
While not as common as shorter focal lengths for street photography, the lens’s ability to capture detail and create a sense of intimacy can be used to tell stories and capture moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Other Applications
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2’s versatility extends beyond these core genres. Its sharp rendering and ability to capture detail make it suitable for various other applications, including:
- Product Photography: Its ability to render detail and create a pleasing bokeh can be used to showcase products with clarity and visual appeal.
- Architectural Photography: Its long focal length allows for capturing architectural details with perspective and depth, emphasizing lines and textures.
- Wildlife Photography: While not ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects, its sharpness and reach can be used to capture portraits of stationary wildlife or birds.
Collecting and Value
The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2, a lens renowned for its exceptional image quality and timeless design, has garnered significant attention from collectors and photographers alike. Its combination of classic aesthetics and advanced optics makes it a coveted addition to any lens collection.
Factors Influencing Market Value
Several factors contribute to the market value of the Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 lens.
- Condition:The condition of the lens is paramount. Lenses in pristine condition, with minimal signs of wear and tear, command higher prices. Conversely, lenses with scratches, fungus, or other defects will be valued lower.
- Rarity:The Leica R 90mm f/2 V2 was produced for a limited period, making certain serial numbers or versions more rare than others. Rare variants, such as those with specific coatings or engravings, can fetch premium prices.
- Demand:The demand for the lens fluctuates based on market trends and the popularity of Leica cameras. High demand can lead to increased prices, while lower demand may result in lower prices.
- Completeness:The presence of original accessories, such as the lens hood, carrying case, and instruction manual, can significantly enhance the value of the lens.
- Historical Significance:Lenses associated with renowned photographers or significant historical events may be highly sought after by collectors.
Concluding Remarks: Leica R 90mm F2 V2 Serial Number
The Leica R 90mm f2 V2, with its serial number serving as a unique identifier, is a timeless lens that continues to captivate photographers today. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, understanding the significance of its serial number is essential for appreciating its history, authenticity, and value.
The lens’s exceptional optical performance, coupled with its iconic design and collectability, makes it a sought-after piece of photographic history. As you delve deeper into the world of Leica lenses, the journey of discovery begins with the serial number, a key to unlocking the secrets of this remarkable lens.