Leica Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH Lens

Leica Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH Lens Summary

The Leica Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH is a fast manual-focus prime for Leica M-mount cameras. It is the first ever 35mm Noctilux lens, extending the series wider than traditional 50mm and 75mm options. This allows for Noctilux optical behaviour to be used for new perspectives while retaining the defining characteristics of this series.

At wide apertures, the lens renders a very shallow depth of field with pronounced subject separation while retaining a natural field of view suited to documentary, street, environmental portraiture and general low-light shooting. A newly developed optical design supports close focusing down to 0.5m, allowing more flexibility at shorter distances than previous Noctilux lenses.

Operation is fully mechanical, with manual focus and a click-stop aperture ring. The lens is optimised for modern high-resolution Leica M sensors and manufactured in Germany. It suits photographers who work deliberately, rely on manual focus precision, and want Noctilux light gathering and separation from a 35mm focal length.

Leica Noctilux-M 35 f1.2 ASPH. Key Features

• First Noctilux lens with a 35mm focal length
• Very fast f/1.2 aperture with pronounced subject to background separation
• Close focusing down to 0.5m
• Optical design includes three aspherical elements
• Floating element maintains quality across the focus range
• Fully manual focus with precise focus throw
• Integrated extendable lens hood reduces flare and contrast loss
• Leica M bayonet with 6-bit coding

Rangefinder focusing operates down to 70cm, with closer distances handled via Live View or an electronic viewfinder. The long focus rotation supports controlled adjustment at wide apertures.

Leica Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH Lens in More Detail

Optics and image quality

The Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH features a, optical design with 10 elements in five groups, with three aspherical surfaces and a floating element. This configuration maintains contrast and clarity across the frame while allowing the lens to operate effectively at very wide apertures. At f/1.2, subject separation is very notable, with smooth transitions into defocused areas.

A floating element maintains consistency from close focus to infinity, which is particularly useful when working at short distances where fast lenses often show reduced performance.

Vignetting is visible at wide apertures and reduces progressively as the lens is stopped down. Distortion is very low for a lens of this speed and focal length, limiting the need for correction in most situations.

Focus operation

Focusing is fully manual via a mechanically coupled focus ring with a long rotation angle. This allows fine adjustment, especially when working close to the minimum focus distance. On Leica M cameras using the optical rangefinder, focusing is supported down to 70cm. From 70cm to 50cm, focusing is carried out using Live View or an electronic viewfinder.

Distance and depth-of-field scales are clearly marked in metres and feet. Despite the lens’s optical complexity, is compact and doesn’t feel at all front heavy.

Handling

The lens is compact for the class, with a short barrel and weight concentrated closer to the mount. The aperture ring features half-stop click increments for tactile feedback. An integrated hood locks in place, and the E49 filter thread is accessible when the hood is retracted.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the first Noctilux lens with a 35mm focal length?

Yes. It is the first Noctilux-M lens to use a 35mm focal length.

Does the lens support autofocus?

No. Focusing is fully manual.

What is the closest focusing distance?

0.5m when using Live View or an electronic viewfinder.

Can it be focused using the optical rangefinder?

Yes, down to 70cm.

Is it compatible with modern high-resolution Leica M sensors?

Yes.

Where is the lens made?

Germany.

Leica Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH Lens Specifications

What’s in the box

• Leica Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH Lens with integrated lens hood
• Front lens cap
• Rear lens cap
• Leather lens case

Specifications