The focal length of this new lens from Leica is not that remarkable—the 18mm becomes a somewhat standard 24mm when used on the Leica M8 and M8.2 digital rangefinders because of sensor magnification—but its compact size and quality, light-weight build should appeal to a range of photojournalists and street photographers. Landscape photographers will also find the Super-Elmar-M 18mm f/3.8 ASPH tempting, especially when used on a film-based Leica M model where they can enjoy the full wide 18mm focal length.

Constructed with eight lenses in seven groups with one aspherical element, the Super-Elmar-M 18mm f/3.8 ASPH is designed to be free of vignetting, distortion and chromatic aberrations. Though we haven't gotten a chance to test one out yet—as PDN went to press the lens had not begun shipping—with those specs, it should produce sharp, crisp pictures with consistent edge-to-edge exposure.

Even when shot wide open, the 18mm f/3.8 offers depth of field extending from infinity to 3.93 feet. You'll likely only need to stop down if you want to increase the depth of field.

The 18mm f/3.8 ASPH lens is also being offered with the new Leica Bright Line Finder M 18mm—for an additional cost, of course—which features more precise framing, along with a clear, high-contrast picture.

Cost: To Be Announced Further information: www.leica-camera.us