1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the proper use, care, and maintenance of your Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.4 II Multi Coated Lens. Designed for Leica M-mount cameras, this compact lens offers a fast f/1.4 aperture and multi-coated optics for enhanced performance. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal results and longevity.
2. Product Overview
The Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.4 II is a high-performance, compact prime lens featuring an improved multi-coated optical design. It is specifically engineered for Leica M-mount cameras, providing a versatile 35mm focal length suitable for various photographic applications, including street, portrait, and general photography.
- Improved Version II MC Lens: Features high index glass elements and multi-coating for reduced focus shift and higher contrast.
- Compact and Lightweight: Weighing approximately 6.7 ounces, it is designed for portability.
- Fast f/1.4 Aperture: Excellent for low-light conditions and achieving shallow depth of field.
- 43mm Filter Thread: Compatible with standard 43mm filters.
- Optional LH-6 Lens Hood: Provides protection and reduces flare (sold separately).
Figure 2.1: Voigtlander Nokton 35mm f/1.4 II Multi Coated Lens. This image displays the Voigtlander Nokton 35mm f/1.4 II lens from a slight angle, highlighting its compact black barrel, silver lens mount, and clearly marked aperture and focus scales. The aperture ring shows settings like f/1.4, 2, 2.8, 4, 5.6, while the focus ring indicates distances in feet and meters, along with depth of field markings.
3. Setup
3.1 Attaching the Lens to Your Camera
- Ensure your camera is turned off.
- Remove the rear lens cap from the Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.4 II lens and the body cap from your Leica M-mount camera.
- Align the red dot on the lens barrel with the corresponding red dot on your camera's lens mount.
- Gently insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks securely into place. Do not force the lens.
- Replace the front lens cap when the lens is not in use.
3.2 Attaching a Lens Hood (Optional)
An optional LH-6 lens hood can be attached to the front of the lens to reduce flare and provide additional protection. Align the lens hood with the front of the lens and twist until it locks into position.
3.3 Attaching Filters
The lens features a 43mm filter thread. To attach a filter, carefully screw it onto the front of the lens until it is snug. Avoid overtightening.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Manual Focusing
This is a manual focus lens. To focus, rotate the focus ring located on the lens barrel until your subject appears sharp in the viewfinder or on your camera's display. For precise focusing, utilize your camera's rangefinder mechanism or focus peaking features if available.
4.2 Adjusting Aperture
The aperture ring is located near the front of the lens. Rotate this ring to select your desired f-stop. The lens offers a maximum aperture of f/1.4 for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field, and can be stopped down to f/16 for greater depth of field.
4.3 Depth of Field Scale
The lens features a depth of field scale, which indicates the approximate range of acceptable sharpness at various apertures and focus distances. This can be useful for zone focusing or pre-focusing for street photography.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning the Lens
- Dust Removal: Use a blower brush to remove loose dust and debris from the lens surfaces.
- Fingerprints/Smudges: For stubborn marks, apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to a clean microfiber lens cloth and gently wipe the lens surface in a circular motion. Avoid applying cleaning solution directly to the lens.
- Lens Body: Wipe the lens barrel with a soft, dry cloth.
- Never use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals to clean the lens.
5.2 Storage
When not in use, store the lens with both front and rear caps attached in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Consider using a dehumidified storage cabinet if you live in a humid environment to prevent mold growth.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Images are blurry or out of focus. | Incorrect manual focus; camera shake; subject movement. | Ensure accurate manual focusing using the rangefinder or focus peaking. Use a faster shutter speed or tripod to minimize camera shake. |
| Darkened corners (vignetting) in images. | Normal characteristic of wide-aperture lenses, especially at f/1.4; filter or lens hood obstruction. | Vignetting is often a characteristic of this lens at wide apertures and can be corrected in post-processing. Ensure filters or lens hoods are correctly attached and not oversized. |
| Dust or debris visible on images. | Dust on the front or rear lens element; dust on the camera sensor. | Clean the lens surfaces as described in the Maintenance section. If the issue persists, clean your camera's sensor or have it professionally cleaned. |
| Lens not attaching securely to camera. | Incorrect alignment; debris in mount. | Re-align the red dots on the lens and camera body. Check for any obstructions in the lens or camera mount. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Voigtländer |
| Model Number | Nokton 35mm f/1.4 II |
| Focal Length | 35mm (Standard) |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.4 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 |
| Lens Type | Wide Angle Prime |
| Compatible Mountings | Leica M |
| Filter Size | 43mm |
| Item Weight | 7 ounces (approximately 200 grams) |
| Product Dimensions | 5.2 x 4.4 x 4.3 inches (approximate packaging dimensions) |
| Date First Available | June 27, 2019 |
8. Warranty and Support
For information regarding the product warranty, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the authorized Voigtländer distributor or retailer from whom you purchased the lens. For technical support or service inquiries, please reach out to your local Voigtländer service center or the seller for assistance.
Manufacturer: Voigtlander
