Leica is no stranger to collaborations with other camera makers. In recent years it's partnered with Panasonic to create D-Lux and V-Lux compact cameras, and Fujifilm for Sofort instant models. For its Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH. zoom ($2,795), Leica worked with L-Mount Alliance partner Sigma to repackage the optics from our Editors' Choice-winning 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art ($1,099) lens in a housing that matches the aesthetics of Leica's SL cameras. It's certainly a splurge, but one you may find worthwhile.Sigma Optics, Leica Looks Make no mistake, the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm looks, feels, and handles just like the company's made-in-Germany SL lenses. This one is made in Japan, though, like the Sigma lens from which it borrows its optical formula. It's a full-frame lens, so it's a better fit for the SL2 or SL2-S, but you can pair it with the Leica CL, an APS-C sensor model. The Vario-Elmarit is finished in black and housed in a metal barrel, complete with dust, splash, ...
The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH. captures detailed photos and opens up to F2.8 to blur backgrounds. It's the zoom to get if you use a Leica mirrorless camera.
Crisp F2.8 optics; Dust, splash, and fluorine protection; Metal barrel with Leica aesthetics; 1:2.9 macro focus
Costs more than Sigma alternative; Not optically stabilized