lens history

[mark mccarty]

Can anyone help me find out the date, history and original use of a Bausch and Lomb f/5.6 500mm
telephoto anastigmat? Brian Downey had a similar search in the archives, but so far no answers.
I'm amazed at how sharp it is wide open, on an 8x10 Agfa/Ansco, using a Packard shutter.
Serial # MS7137R.

[Jim Noel]

There is no listing for this lens in Vade Mecum or in a 1940 catalog of Bausch & Lomb lenses.
Sorry, I tried.
Jim

[mark mccarty]

Thanks Jim:
The thing is huge, heavy, and probably military in original usage. Any idea as to how to research
that area of optics?

BTW, I mislisted it: 508mm, 20 inches is what is inscribed .

MM