Light Lens Lab announced the new “M 50mm f/1.9 Rigid-ZS6” interchangeable lens for Leica M mount on October 9, 2026. This product is an homage lens that draws inspiration from the rendering characteristics of the classic lens “Dallmeyer Super-Six 50mm f/1.9,” and features a redesigned optical system adapted to modern shooting environments.
Rather than solely pursuing high resolution and contrast, the focus is on soft rendering, smooth bokeh, and expression that utilizes the aberrations characteristic of classic lenses. In addition to the standard type, the lineup also includes the “LC Edition,” a low-contrast version that is mindful of the original’s rendering characteristics.
4-group, 6-element optical design inspired by depiction of “Super-Six”
The optical system employs a double Gauss type configuration with 4 groups and 6 elements, which has been widely used in classic lenses.
While referencing the soft rendering and unique bokeh of the original “Dallmeyer Super-Six 50mm f/1.9,” this lens was designed to enhance sharpness in the center of the frame. The goal was to retain the distinctive character of a classic lens while simultaneously achieving a level of image quality that is easily usable with modern digital cameras.
At its widest aperture of F1.9, it softly renders the subject’s outline while creating a smooth bokeh effect in the background. Its rendering characteristics make it ideal for portrait photography and everyday snapshots, where the interplay of light is crucial.
Emphasis on aberrations and color reproduction characteristic of classic lenses.
While recent interchangeable lenses pursue high resolution and contrast, the M 50mm f/1.9 Rigid-ZS6 actively incorporates the distinctive rendering characteristics of classic lenses.
According to the manufacturer, the optical design doesn’t aim to completely eliminate aberrations, but rather to utilize their characteristics to achieve a unique sense of depth and soft rendering. The color reproduction is also designed with classic lenses in mind.
Unlike modern lenses that prioritize high resolution and uniform rendering, this product aims to utilize the unique characteristics of the optical system itself in photographic expression.
Two versions available: standard type and low-contrast “LC Edition.”
The lineup consists of two types: a standard type and a low-contrast type called “LC Edition”.
The standard type features relatively clear rendering and balanced contrast. While retaining the softness characteristic of classic lenses, it aims for rendering that is easy to handle in modern shooting environments.
On the other hand, the LC Edition is designed with a focus on contrast reproduction similar to the original Dallmeyer Super-Six 50mm f/1.9. It is intended for users who seek tonal expression and a soft atmosphere through low contrast.
The two types are configured to be selectable based on differences in contrast and rendering characteristics.
Brass lens barrel reminiscent of Leica Rigid.
The exterior design evokes the classic Leica Rigid. Brass is used for the main metal parts, paying attention to texture and tactile feel during operation.
With its silver barrel and intricate engravings, the lens’s appearance is designed to blend seamlessly with rangefinder cameras.
The focus is a rangefinder-coupled manual focus system. The minimum focusing distance is 0.7m, the filter diameter is 39mm (E39), and the weight is approximately 265g. Despite its compact barrel, it has a substantial weight thanks to its brass construction.
Light Lens Lab M 50mm f/1.9 Main Specifications
| Compatible mounts | Leica M mount |
| Compatible imaging screen size | 35mm full frame |
| focal length | 50mm |
| Lens configuration | 4 groups, 6 elements (double Gauss type) |
| focus | MF (Manual Focus), Rangefinder Coupled |
| aperture | F1.9～F22 |
| Aperture blades | 11 sheets |
| Minimum focusing distance | 0.7m |
| filter diameter | 39mm (E39) |
| size | Approximately Φ51 x 45 mm (excluding mounting part and protrusions) |
| mass | Approximately 265g |
| accessories | Front and rear caps, lens case |
| Manufacturer’s warranty | 3 years (covers natural failures) |
