Ilex Paragon 254mm F6.3 info?

[JimboWalker]

I have a chance to buy an Ilex Paragon 10" (254mm) f6.3 in Ilex shutter. Serial No. 227. I have not checked this lens out yet, so not sure of condition. I can not find much info on this lens online. Anyone have or used one? I do not need this lens, but may invest if worth it. Thanks!!

[Louis Pacilla]

A quality clone of the Commercial Ektar or more factually a copy of the Tessar IIb f6.3.

[aphcl84]

It's a modern, computer designed 6.3 tessar type lens that Ilex started making in the 60's. It was also sold as an Acutar and as an Ilex-Caltar. I have one of the 10" lenses but have not had the chance to test it against my Fujinar 25cm yet so I don't know how well it performs but I've read it was intended to be a replacement for the commercial ektars and supposed to be as high a performer.
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[Carsten Wolff]

What is your motivation? Coverage? Price? "Look"?. I had it, liked it, optical performance and coverage wise excellent, but didn't like the Ilex shutter all that much. Replaced it with a 250mm f6.3 Fujinon-W in a modern Copal (and matching my filter sizes, although adapters can be had I hear :)) for less money (using it on 5x7"). All depends what you use it for. The Paragon was a very good commercial lens. If its cheap enough, you have a lensboard option for it, or it fulfils some other need, go for it.

[Peter De Smidt]

Mine is an excellent performer.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/mon2tn1v9zbg7le/Faux_Paragon_f16-0191.jpg?raw=1

[Jim Noel]

One of my two favorite 10" lenses, and I love Ilex shutters!