LIGHT LENS LAB M 50mm f/1.5 Z21 Matte Black (Leica M Mount) is a special model reinterpreting the legendary French “Angenieux 50mm F1.5 Type S21” with modern optical know-how and updated materials.
The “Z” in Z21 comes from the initial of the designer, Mr. Zhou, reflecting the intention to carry on the spirit of the original S21 developers.
While keeping the classic Double Gauss design philosophy, the lens was newly reviewed and refined to pursue the distinctive S21-style appearance and rendering. It delivers a unique balance of softness and a firm core—evoking the character of classic masterpieces—while focusing not only on resolution, but also on bokeh character and the beauty of aberrations, creating a poetic, expressive look that cannot be described by numbers alone.
Classic look & premium handling (Matte Black finish)
Traditional styling with carefully tuned helicoid and aperture ring operation. The matte black barrel reduces reflections and adds a refined, high-end presence with a smooth, “solid-in-hand” feel.
Original character + updated performance
The lens was analyzed with professional measuring equipment and rebuilt to reproduce the original rendering tendencies based on historical references and sample images, while improving optical performance in key areas.
Modern glass & optimized coating
Latest optical glass and modern coatings enhance sharpness and contrast, while preserving the distinctive gentle tone and bokeh associated with the S21 style. Slightly improved peripheral illumination compared to the original.
Larger image circle design
Designed with a slightly larger image circle than the original. On 44×33mm (medium format) sensors, vignetting is generally minimal at near to mid distances.
Mount: Leica M
Format: Full Frame (35mm)
Focal Length: 50mm
Optical Design: 6 elements in 4 groups (Double Gauss type)
Focus: Manual Focus, Rangefinder-coupled
Aperture: f/1.5 – f/22
Diaphragm Blades: 10
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.7m
Filter Thread: 52mm (E52)
Dimensions: approx. Φ61 × 64.3mm (excluding mount/protrusions)
Weight: approx. 313g
Included: Front/Rear caps, lens case
Warranty: 3 years (manufacturer warranty, covers natural failures)
When mounted to 44×33mm format cameras via an adapter, vignetting may occur at infinity focus depending on shooting conditions.
Product details may vary slightly depending on the production lot.
About LIGHT LENS LAB
LIGHT LENS LAB is a Chinese lens manufacturer founded by a group of passionate investors. Their first major project—recreating the original Summicron 35mm f/2—attracted attention for its faithful reproduction of not just the lens formula and materials, but also its rendering performance. This model, known as the "Zhou Eight-Element," became a highly acclaimed product among enthusiasts.