Hey, welcome to the list. Thanks for asking a question OM
related.
>First of all, is there any truth in the rumor that chrome
>front ring lenses have different optical design/coating to the
>later models?
As a general rule, yes. Which are better is a matter of debate,
but it really comes down to your goals, budget, and
expectations.
1. Silvernosed lenses are less expensive, therefore you can buy
more of them.
2. Zoom lenses and wide-angles greater than 35mm are best in the
multi-coated, black-nosed variety. My ONLY blacknosed,
mulitcoated lens is a 24/2.8. It is MUCH better than the
silvernosed version. How much better? It's no contest. The
difference is massive.
3. The silvernosed 35/2.8 is possibly sharper than later
versions. I'm on my second one and it will remain one of my two
all-time favorite lenses.
4. The 50mm lenses are better served by getting later models.
They are sharper, have better color and don't flare nearly as
much.
5. The 85/2 and 100/2.8 are awesome lenses in any variety. I
prefer my silvernosed 100/2.8, but wouldn't hesitate to
recommend ANY lens of these two focal lengths.
6. The 200/4 is fine in either silvernosed or blacknosed
versions. Since it isn't a zoom lens, the need for multicoating
is minimized.
7. If I was just starting to build up an OM system and the
pricing differential was no problem, I'd get all multicoated,
black-nosed lenses due to overall image improvement and color
consistancy.
8. Silvernosed lenses look MUCH BETTER on chrome OM-1 and OM-2
bodies.
I am a "weekend warrier" professional photographer and have been
since 1989. From day-1 I've used the OM system (usually
augmented by medium format when necessary), and have a nice,
comfortable setup. I use two bodies (OM-2S and OM-4), winders
(or not), vivitar flash (with OM module), 24/2.8 (MC), 35/2.8
(SC), 50/3.5 (SC), 100/2.8 (SC) and 200/2.8 (SC). I also have a
135/3.5 (SC) which I occasionally use (bokeh isn't as nice) and
a gift 50/1.8 which makes a good loupe. (Thanks a lot, Tom, my
life just wasn't complete without that lens) <smile>
Amazing that a "professional" is able to use such obsolete
equipment, isn't it? Ok, I also use an IS-3/G-40 for action
stuff and "safety shots".
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