Mr. Ding 35mm f/1.8 Pactcron

Mr. Ding Optics 35mm f/1.8 Pactcron

The Mr. Ding Optics 35mm f/1.8 Pactcron is a manual-focus prime lens for the Leica M-mount. It features a maximum aperture of f/1.8, a specification that sits between the standard f/1.4 and f/2 apertures common to the 35mm focal length. The lens utilizes a 7-element, 5-group optical formula based on a symmetric Double Gauss design, similar to the Leica 35mm Summicron-M (Version IV / King of Bokeh). Its optical construction excludes aspherical elements, instead utilizing four lanthanide glass elements and one high-refractive index element to manage aberrations.

The lens is designed with an emphasis on "classic" rendering, characterized by high central sharpness and a traditional bokeh profile. It employs a multi-layer nano-coating to mitigate flare, which the manufacturer claims is a technical improvement over their previous lens coatings. Mechanically, the lens is built with a brass barrel and is available in a black paint finish. It features a 39mm filter thread, a focus tab, and an aperture ring with half-stop increments.

During the initial market release, early units were noted for inconsistencies in mechanical tolerances and assembly quality. Mr. Ding Optics subsequently updated its manufacturing process to address these issues. The manufacturer has stated that current production involves refined assembly techniques and tightened quality control standards to ensure greater consistency in the focus and aperture mechanisms.

The lens is rangefinder-coupled and brings up the 35mm/135mm framelines on Leica M cameras. Its physical dimensions are compact, measuring 28mm in length and weighing approximately 268g, which results in minimal viewfinder blockage when used without the optional vented metal hood.