Panasonic launches Leica DG Summilux 9mm F1.7 for Micro Four Thirds

Panasonic introduced the Leica DG Summilux 9mm F1.7 (35mm equivalent: 18mm), a fast ultra wide-angle fixed focal length lens for the Lumix G series.

In addition to the high light intensity with very compact dimensions, the Micro Four Thirds lens has a minimum focus distance of just 9.5 cm and a magnification factor of 0.25x (35mm camera equivalent: 0.5x). The combination of these features makes it possible to highlight a subject against an expansive background. The lens also featured high imaging performance and a soft, beautiful bokeh for photos and videos.

This makes the new lens the perfect choice for landscape and architecture shots, street photography, and weddings. The 9mm meets the strict Leica quality standards and therefore is suitable for both demanding amateurs and professionals in the photo and video field.

The new Leica 9mm F1.7 lens consists of twelve lens elements in nine groups, including two aspherical lenses, two ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lenses, and a UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index) lens, which suppresses chromatic aberration. In addition, the UHR lens ensures consistent image quality from the center to the edges of the frame while allowing for a smaller and more compact lens unit.

The lens works silently with the camera’s fast, high-precision contrast AF system, up to a maximum frame rate of 240 frames. For additional intuitive and precise focusing, the manual focus can be set to linear or non-linear.

Maximum mobility and always ready for use with its compact size and low weight of approx. 130g, the lens represents the amazing mobility of the Micro Four Thirds system. The robust, dust and splash-proof design withstands use under harsh conditions even at minus 10 degrees Celsius and ensures maximum reliability. (Dust and splashproof do not mean that this lens will not be damaged if it comes in direct contact with dust and water.)

Price and availability

The Panasonic Leica DG Summilux 9mm F1.7 can be pre-ordered through the Bhphotovideo.com, Adorama.com, and Amazon.com websites at $497.99. It will be available from July 24, 2022.

Leica DG Summilux 9mm F1.7 specifications

• Focal Length: 9mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.7
• Minimum Aperture: f/16
• Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
• Lens Format Coverage: Micro Four Thirds
• Angle of View: 100°
• Minimum Focus Distance: 3.7″ / 9.5 cm
• Maximum Magnification: 0.25x
• Optical Design: 12 Elements in 9 Groups
• Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
• Focus Type: Autofocus
• Image Stabilization: No
• Front Filter Size: 55 mm
• Dimensions (ø x L): 60.8 x 52 mm
• Weight: 4.6 oz / 130 g

Recently, Tokina introduced the Vista 180mm T1.9 cinema lens, which provides a natural perspective that accentuates the faces of subjects and creates a beautiful blur when needed. It is equally suitable for Super35 and larger formats up to Vista Vision and is priced at $17,999.