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Leica introduces Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH lens for L-mount

Leica has announced its Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH lens for full-frame L-mount bodies. This tele-zoom has 15 elements in 19 groups, with three of the elements having aspherical surfaces. The focus group is made up of a single element and is driven by a quiet stepping motor.

The lens’ minimum focus distance is 18cm (7.1″) and the max magnification is 0.34x. The body is weather-sealed and uses 82mm filters. Lighter than the older Leica Vario Elmarit SL 24-90mm ASPH, (856g / 1.9 lb compared to 1,140g / 2.5 lb), the new lens offers similar build-quality, and a high standard of construction.

The 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH is now available for $2795. It will also come bundled as the kit lens for the Leica SL2 ($8795) and SL2-S ($7195). We have one coming to DPReview’s office and we’ll be posting sample images and first impressions in the coming days.

Official sample photos


Press release

Leica Releases A New, Universal SL Zoom Lens and Two Bundles Perfect for SL-System Newcomers

May 6, 2021—Leica Camera is expanding the Leica SL lens portfolio with another versatile zoom lens, also launching in two new bundle options with the SL2 and SL2-S. The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. is the ideal lens with broad appeal for any photographer given its ability to equally capture reportage, travel, studio, architectural and landscape photography, as well as portraits, close-ups, and video content. With its extensive focal range, consistent maximum aperture of f/2.8, and vast scope of uses, this new addition is a shining example of a lens that can be enjoyed by professionals, enthusiasts and first-time SL-System adopters alike. As a bundle option with the SL2 and SL2-S, the SL-System now becomes an even more viable option for all kinds of users to realize their creative passions.

The elaborate Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASPH. lens design ensures an outstanding optical performance as it is comprised of 19 elements in 15 groups, featuring three elements with aspherical surfaces on both sides. This sophisticated lens also offers an outstanding ability to provide correction of chromatic aberrations across the entire focal range, resulting in a crisp photograph no matter where you zoom. The internal focusing is based on a single, lightweight lens element, and utilizes a silent stepper motor to deliver a fast and precise autofocus. In addition to its lightweight design, the metal body and weather sealing make the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH durable in any environment, ultimately making it suited for even the rigors of outdoor landscape and adventure photographers or the hustle and bustle of a pro wedding photographer.

The compact dimensions of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. are made possible by the omission of in-lens optical image stabilization. When the lens is mounted on the SL2 or SL2-S, the camera’s stabilized image sensor steps up to the task with highly effective image stabilization while affording the lens its smaller size and lower weight. This makes the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. the ultimate tool for both still photography in low-light and video recordings with rock-solid dynamic camera movements. The aperture of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. comprises 11 blades that create a consistently lovely, circular bokeh to make subjects stand out and pop from the background, while its minimum focusing distance ensures exceptionally high-quality images even when shooting at close range. From near to far, low-light to broad sunlight, portraits to fast action, 24 to 70 mm, the new addition to the L-Mount portfolio enables photographers to capture any kind of photo with top-level sharpness and the Leica look.

Supplementing the launch of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASPH. lens are two camera and lens bundles, offering the latest of the SL-System at a more approachable price when purchased as a set. Choose either the high-megapixel flagship SL2 or the jack-of-all-trades hybrid SL2-S along with the new 24-70 lens for an even further value proposition, enabling photographers or videographers to pursue their path to creative freedom.

The new Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. is available to order today at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers for $2,795. The SL2 and SL2-S camera bundles coupled with the new 24-70 are priced at $8,795 and $7,195 respectively – representing a savings of $595 in either bundle.

Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 24–70 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount L-Mount
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8
Minimum aperture F22
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 11
Optics
Elements 19
Groups 15
Special elements / coatings 3 aspherical elements
Focus
Minimum focus 0.18 m (7.09)
Maximum magnification 0.34×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual Unknown
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 856 g (1.89 lb)
Diameter 88 mm (3.46)
Length 123 mm (4.84)
Materials Anodized aluminum
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Zoom lock No
Filter thread 82 mm
Hood supplied Yes


Author:
dpreview staff

Source: Dpreview

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