Leica Re-Releases a Vintage Lens Favorite

The classic 1935 Thambar-M 90mm lens is back.

Following the re-issue of the Summaron-M 28 mm f/5.6, Leica has announced the Thambar-M 90 mm f/2.2, originally released in 1935. Thambar is derived from the Greek term 'thambo', meaning 'blurred', and it's this distinctive, "unmistakeable bokeh" look that will interest filmmakers and photographers.

Leica is saying the original design of the vintage Thambar-M 90 mm f/2.2 has been almost entirely preserved in the new model with the exception of the "single-coating to protect the glass against environmental influences and surface corrosion." Optically you are looking at a very simple lens design with four elements in three groups along with a 20-bladed aperture for the circular rendition of out-of-focus highlights.

The lens creates a dreamy, romantic look with soft focus areas that is not easily replicated in post-processing. It's made possible due to an intentional under-correction while constructing the spherical lens elements. Filmmakers can control the softening level and depth of field by rotating the step-less aperture ring. Widening the aperture will increase the soft focus, while stopping down reduces the effect.

A still using Thambar-M 90 f/2,2Credit: Jolie Luo

The Thambar 90mm f/2.2 can be used with any Leica M Camera and can focus on objects as close as 3.3" (1 meter) and stops down to f/25. A 49 mm filter thread allows for attaching ND, UV or polarizing filters. This new lens will be available from mid-November. Price set at $6,495.00. You can find more info at Leica’s microsite here.