Sigma is a properly historic brand. It was founded all the way back in 1961, its legendary Aizu factory in Fukushima, Japan being built in 1973. Unlike most other Japanese photographic brands, Sigma still makes all of its lenses in Japan, at the same location. The ‘Global Vision’ line-up was launched in 2012, with all subsequent lenses being divided into Art, Contemporary and Sports categories.
The Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art that I’m reviewing here is the embodiment of what Sigma Art line lenses are all about – uncompromising design that puts premium image quality for creative expression front and center. Even so, the Mark II shaves 30% off the weight and 20% off the physical length of its predecessor, which was launched six years earlier, making it more manageable and easier to live with. And despite the downsizing, there’s a raft of improvements that help the lens earn a place as one of the best 35mm lenses on the market, at least for Sony E-mount and various brands of L-mount mirrorless cameras.
