The following chart presents a comparison between basic parameters of different full frame 24-25 mm lenses with apertures as fast as f/2.4-3.5. As you can notice the Sigma is here a relatively heavy device – only the distinctly faster Loxia weighs more. The Sigma and the Tamron offer you excellent minimum focusing value that results in 1:2 mapping.
The Sigma sticks out with one more feature – an ubiquitous use of metal. You would be really hard pressed to find a plastic part in this lens; not only its barrel is made of metal but also its hood, and the magnetic cap that come in the box with this lens.
In the photo below the lens, tested here, is positioned between the Sigma A 35 mm f/1.4 DH HSM and the Sony 50 mm f/1.4, both designed for reflex cameras.
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The Sigma 24 mm f/3.5 DG DN starts with a metal mount that surrounds contacts and a rear element, 20 mm in diameter. That element doesn't move and is inserted quite shallow into the casing. The area around it is blackened and matted properly well so from this side everything looks fine.
The proper body of the lens starts with a smooth, metal ring painted black. On that ring you can find a lot of information – an inscription with the name and parameters of the lens, the logo of the producer, a letter 'C' meaning the lens belongs to the 'Contemporary' series, '021' mark, meaning the model year, a serial number, a white dot, making an alignment with a camera easier, a focusing mechanism mode switch (AF/MF), and, finally, two other inscriptions: 'MADE IN JAPAN' and '0.108M/0.354FEET–∞'.
Another ring, 7 mm wide, controls aperture values. On both sides of the ring you can find convex ribbing, added for a firmer grip and better ergonomics. The ring has aperture marks from f/3.5 to f/22, with itermediate points every 1/3 EV, and also an A value that allows you automatic control of parameters. Its performance is beyond reproach.
Then you see an immobile, narrow part of the barrel that turns into a manual focus ring, 19 mm wide. The ring doesn't feature any markings but its main part is ribbed to improve your grip. It is a focus-by-wire construction that moves quite smoothly; its focus throw depends strongly on the speed of your turning . Still, even if you turn it quickly the focusing range amounts to well over 200 degrees, a pretty high value, certainly allowing you very precise settings.
The lens ends with an immobile, metal ring on which you can find a hood mount. The mount is surrounded by a non-rotating filter thread, 55 mm in diameter.
The slightly convex front element is 32 mm in diameter and it doesn't move. It is surrounded by a black fragment of casing, this time without any inscriptions.
When it comes to optical construction you deal here with 10 elements positioned in 9 groups. One element is made of low dispersion SLD glass and three others are aspherical in shape. Inside you can also find a round aperture with nine blades which can be closed down to a value of f/22.
Buyers get in the box with the lens: a metal hood, a rear cap and two front caps – one classic, made of plastics, the other magnetic and made of metal, a really cool solution. Series C accessory kits don't include any kind of case.
