360mm Lens for 8x10

**Dave Willison** · 22-Jun-2001, 16:52

I'm currently looking for a 8x10 lens somewhere in the 360/14" range. The lens will be mounted on a Calumet C-1 and used primarily in a studio setting. If possible, I need something that can function as a general purpose lens for tabletop work, portraits (head & shoulders), and some closeup shots. I'm looking for a used lens mounted in a shutter but a barrel lens might also be acceptable. Finally, I would like to spend about $500. Sadly, this price range seems to exclude the 355 G Claron, the 360 Nikor W, and any of the 360 Sironars or Symmars. It would also probably eliminate the Rodenstock Ronar. I think that leaves me with the 14" Commercial Ektar and possibly a 14" Goertz Red Dot Artar. Any other possible choices or have I managed to answer my own question? Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

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**N Dhananjay** · 22-Jun-2001, 17:11

What about the older convertible Scneider Symars - I think there was a 300/500 - don't know if there was anything longer. I'm fairly sure I've seen a 360 non-convertible Symmar also. Another good option might be a Protar set or a Turner Reich convertible set. Not razor sharp like the newer optics perhaps but they will give you 3 focal lengths and might be fine for contact printing or mild enlargements. Cheers, DJ.

**Geoffrey_1456** · 22-Jun-2001, 17:28

Dave,

MPX has a 360mm Symmar conv. in barrel for $389. It might not be ideal for your tabletop closeups. From what you mentioned, 355 G-Claron is a better choice. I got mine for $500, and you have to have patience and look around. Also look for Fujinon W and Hugo Meyer Plasmat. Cheers,

**Doug Paramore** · 22-Jun-2001, 19:19

Dave: The Commercial Ektar is a great lens, as is the Artar you mentioned. There was also a Calumet Caltar made in that focal length. You might also consider one of the older triple convertables which work well on 8x10. You shouldn't have much of a problem finding good glass for your camera close to the price range you mentioned.

Regards,

**Chad Jarvis** · 22-Jun-2001, 20:41

Artars kick butt.

**David A. Goldfarb** · 22-Jun-2001, 23:20

I have an uncoated 360mm/f:4.5 Heliar in barrel that's outstanding for portraits, and I didn't pay too much for it. (How does one use a barrel lens for portraits?--Keep the roomlights low, and use strobes and a lenscap.) It really renders nice skin textures. You could combine it with a Packard shutter and stay within your budget, but it's not going to have a lot of room for movenents for tabletop work.