Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.5 Aspherical VM Type 2

Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.5 Aspherical VM Type 2

Cosina's Vintage Line reworking of a fast 35mm gives M-mount users a brass-bodied alternative to Leica's far costlier Summilux and Summicron designs. Reviewers positioned the lens as a strong value proposition, noting that it pairs a fast maximum aperture and solid optical performance against the much higher price of Leica's 35mm offerings [1][2]. It was announced in October 2022 as part of a two-version release, the Type I and Type II, with shipping beginning the following month [3].

The two versions share the same optical design, a nine-element, six-group formula using two double-sided aspherical elements, but differ in their barrels: the Type I uses an aluminum body, while the Type 2 is built from brass and carries a noticeably greater heft. The optics were optimized for both digital and film rangefinder bodies, and the lens uses a 12-blade aperture diaphragm and a 39mm filter thread in a body that measures under 36mm long from the mount. It focuses down to 0.5m, although the M rangefinder only couples to roughly 0.7m, so closer distances require live view or an external finder such as the Visoflex. Build quality drew consistent praise, with smooth, well-tensioned focusing and a positively clicking aperture ring, plus a focusing tab and legible distance markings. Compatible hoods are the slitted LH-4N and the classic-style LH-12, both sold separately.

Voigtländer described the design as a modern classic inspired by 1970s styling, conceived as a new standard lens within a VM-mount 35mm range that already included several other options. The Type 2 brass version is offered in black paint and a silver/chrome finish, whereas the Type I aluminum version was produced only in black. Identification is straightforward from the Type II designation engraved on the barrel and from its greater weight relative to the aluminum Type I. The black-paint Type 2 was reported to have been delayed deliberately so Voigtländer could offer the lens in more cosmetic finishes.

Optical qualities

Rendering Reviewers characterized the lens as sharp wide open at f/1.5 with good contrast, while retaining a vintage drawing in keeping with the Vintage Line branding. Compared with Voigtländer's Ultron series, the rendering was described as warmer and less clinical, where the Ultron looked cooler and more modern.

Distortion and vignetting Distortion was reported as very low, and vignetting wide open was described as slight and easily corrected.

Digital use The optical design was stated to be optimized for use on both digital and film rangefinder cameras, and the review samples were shot on a Leica M10-P.

History

Development and Launch The Nokton Vintage Line 35mm f/1.5 Aspherical was officially announced in October 2022 alongside its sibling, with deliveries planned for November. Voigtländer presented it as a compact, large-aperture standard lens for rangefinder cameras and positioned it as a new benchmark within a VM-mount 35mm lineup that already offered multiple alternatives.

Production Evolution The lens shipped in two parallel forms rather than as successive revisions. The Type I uses an aluminum barrel weighing about 188g and was offered in black only, while the Type 2 uses a brass barrel of about 284g and is available in black paint and silver finishes; the optics are identical between the two.

Collector Notes Buyers distinguishing the Type 2 from the Type I should rely on the engraved designation and the heavier brass construction, since the optical formula is shared. Prospective owners should also be aware that, despite the 0.5m minimum focus distance, rangefinder coupling stops near 0.7m, so the closest range is usable only with live view or an accessory finder. Worth confirming with any purchase are the correct hood, the LH-4N or LH-12, as these are separate accessories.