Roger Posts Teardown of EF 35 f/1.4L II USM

Roger Cicala over at LensRentals was curious to see how much engineering went into Canon's new EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM. So in Roger-like fashion, he tore into one.

As it turns out, the lens seems especially well constructed and well thought out. Roger's comments at the bottom of the teardown say it all:

"I'm sure you can tell we're impressed with the Canon 35mm f/1.4 Mk II. The weather resistance appears better than most weather resistant lenses. (As always, I'll add that weather resistance still means water damage voids the warranty.) The mechanical construction is beyond impressive. This lens is massively over-engineered compared to any other prime we've ever disassembled. It's built like a tank where it counts; on the inside. Moving parts are huge and robust. Six big screws are used in locations where 3 smalls screws are common in other lenses. Heavy roller bearings move the focusing group, it doesn't slide on little nylon collars.

It's also designed thoughtfully and logically. Things that will inevitably get damaged on any lens, like the front element and filter ring, are designed to be replaced easily. There are some things inside, particularly with the tensioning screws and springs, that I'm not certain I understand the purpose of, but I am certain there is a purpose. If I had to summarize the mechanical design of this lens, I would say simply that no expense was spared, no corner was cut.

Sometimes things are expensive because they're worth it. Sometimes they're heavy because they're so solidly constructed. This is one of those times."

Check out the entire post for the full teardown details.

Curious to see how well the Canon 35mm f/1.4L II USM performs in your kit? You can rent a copy at LensRentals or otherwise pick up your own at B&H.

Posted: 12/10/2015 5:41:11 AM ET   Posted By: Sean
Posted to: Canon News, Sony News    Category: LensRentals News
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