The nominal focal lengths of the Leica M lenses are based on the 35mm film
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format, i.e. an initial format of 24x36mm. However, the sensor on the Leica M8
is slightly smaller at 18x27mm, by a factor of 0.75. Therefore the field angle of
these lenses on Leica M8 models always corresponds to that for lenses with
focal lengths longer by a factor of 1.33 (1.33 = reciprocal of 0.75). This has no
impact on the depth of field, which can be read directly on the lens on the
Leica M8 as on all other models.
The 6-bit lens code in the bayonet (7) allows digital Leica M models to identify
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the attached lens type. The cameras use this information to optimize the
exposure and image data.
All Leica M cameras without the 28mm bright line frame, except for those with
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a 0.85x viewfinder, the M3 and the former Leica MP (professional version of
M3) can be fitted with this by Leica Camera AG Customer Care department
(see p. 21 or your Warranty Card for addresses) – it then appears in
conjunction with the 90mm bright line frame.
See „Accessories", p. 18
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This does not depend on the initial format of the relevant camera - whether this
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is 18x27mm (sensor size) on Leica M8 models or 24x36 on all other Leica M
models.
SPECIAL FEATURES
The Leica Summilux-M 28mm f/1.4 ASPH rounds off the range of high-speed M
wide angle focal lengths. It offers excellent image performance over the entire
image field even at full aperture and in the close-up range thanks to a „floating
element". With its exceptional contrast, the lens delivers the same recognized
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