Need fast 105mm lens for 4x5 - recommendations?

[Leigh]

Hi All,

I've tried to standardize on f/5.6 lenses for my 4x5 because they give a brighter GG image and more precise focus.

So far I've been successful on eight different FLs from 65mm through 300mm, but I can't find a suitable 105mm lens.

I want something with a large image circle, at least 235mm. The Fuji SWD series would work, except the longest FL is 90mm (which I have).

Any suggestions?

TIA

- Leigh

[Steve Hamley]

If you can stand 110mm, then the Schneider f:5.6 SS XL would be ideal. If you can stand f:8 and 111mm, the Goerz 4-3/8" WA Dagor. There aren't many choices in 105mm that cover 235mm.

Cheers, Steve

[Leigh]

Thanks for the info, Steve.

I'm really trying to hit 105. I want one right in between my 90 and 120. If necessary I'll go with a slower lens.

- Leigh

[Bill_1856]

That's really splitting hairs.

[Leigh]

That's really splitting hairs.

Yep, 'tis. I'm a picky person.

- Leigh

[Gem Singer]

The need for a fast 105 with a large image circle greatly limits your choices.

If you're willing to settle for a slightly slower lens, Fuji makes an f8 105SW that has a 250mm image circle.

The two that I have owned were blazing sharp, and I never had a problem focusing in dim light with the f8 maximum aperture. I used those lenses for both 4x5 and 5x7.

Good previously owned Fuji f8 105SW's are difficult to find and usually demand a high price.

The Fujinon f5.6 105 CM-W is a faster lens with less coverage. However, its image circle will cover 4x5 with limited movements.

[Leigh]

Hi Gem,

I had considered the 105 CM-W, but with only a 174mm image circle it affords almost no movements.

I'll probably end up with the 105 SW as being the closest to what I want, even though it's a full stop slower.

I have a couple of other Fujinon lenses in the collection and they perform very well.

Thanks for the info.

- Leigh

[Nicholas F. Jones]

Since you'll go slower, then how about the Fujinon SW 105 f/8, with image circle of 250mm at f/22? Plenty bright enough for me on 5x7. Some people say they're hard to find, although last time I checked Robert White was offering it new. I took a chance on a bargain-basement pre-owned example with "Schneideritis" and it performs beautifully for me on b&w (the seller said color might be otherwise, but I can't comment on that).

[Leigh]

Robert White???

- Leigh

[Gem Singer]

I just did a quick search. KEH has a previously owned Fuji f8 105SW listed for $465 in Ex condition.

It has a dented filter ring, thus the low price. I have my doubts about the condition.

A few years ago, I paid $650-$700 for the ones that I owned.

Sometimes, Jim at Midwest Photo manages to find used Fuji lenses in better condition.

Email jim@mpex.com

(BTW, Robert White is in the UK)