Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II

Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II

The Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II is a modern revival of the classic Meyer-Optik triplet, built around a simple three-element, three-group design that the brand markets for its signature "soap bubble" bokeh [1]. Rather than chasing clinical correction, the lens leans into the visual character of an old triplet while adding contemporary glass and mechanics, and it is offered here in a manual-focus barrel made for Leica M-mount rangefinder cameras [1].

Optically the lens keeps the traditional Cooke-type triplet layout but uses coated Schott optical glass, which the maker credits for cleaner contrast, more neutral color, and improved resistance to flare and ghosting compared with the century-old original [1]. The twelve-blade diaphragm is intended to hold a rounded opening as the lens is stopped down, supporting the circular out-of-focus highlights that are the design's calling card [1]. Focusing is by hand, and the lens is not rangefinder coupled: Meyer-Optik notes that focus must be set using live view or zone-focusing rather than the camera's rangefinder patch [1]. It focuses to roughly 0.4 m, a closer working distance than the vintage version offered, and uses a 52 mm front filter thread that is shared across the brand's version II line [1].

The "II" designation marks a reworked product over the earlier revival lens. According to the manufacturer's description, version II carries a revised optical design aimed at higher contrast and resolution together with a redeveloped mechanical design said to give smoother operation and a more streamlined barrel [1]. Buyers should note the model is identified by the manufacturer code MOG5028IILM for the Leica M variant, and that the maximum aperture is f/2.8 despite occasional listings that mislabel it as f/2.9 [1].

Optical qualities

Rendering The defining trait is the bubble-like rendering of background highlights, produced by the uncorrected spherical aberration of the triplet formula and emphasized by the rounded twelve-blade aperture [1]. The manufacturer describes strong colors and central sharpness, with the coated Schott glass adding contrast and color neutrality and reducing flare relative to the original vintage lens [1]. Independent, in-depth review data for this specific version is limited, so claims beyond the documented design character should be treated cautiously.

History

Development and Launch The lens descends from the original Meyer-Optik Trioplan, a triplet whose distinctive background rendering drove the brand's modern relaunch of Trioplan-branded optics; the 50mm f/2.8 II is presented as an updated take on that classic, vintage design rather than a new optical concept [1]. It is sold as a normal-length prime for full-frame and 35mm Leica M-mount rangefinder cameras [1].

Collector Notes Because the lens is not rangefinder coupled, prospective owners should plan to focus by live view or zone focusing on a digital M body rather than expecting accurate use through the optical rangefinder [1]. The 52 mm filter size is consistent across the brand's version II series, which helps with sharing filters and caps [1]. Listings sometimes show the aperture as f/2.9 or reference the manufacturer code inconsistently, so confirm that a unit is the f/2.8 version II in Leica M mount before purchase [1].

Sources

• [1] B&H Photo Video. Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II Lens for Leica M (Overview and Specs). https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1486204-REG/meyer_optik_gorlitz_mog5029iilm_trioplan_50_f2_9_ii.html