Quality of an old Calumet Caltar 165/6.3

[Francesco Panzeri]

I'm italian and when i ask to buy a Xenar 150 a friend told me that he can give me an old Calumet Caltar 165/6,3 for more or less 220$. Does anyone can tel me if he is a good friend. And also if is similar to Schneider Xenar as quality (i've no problems if it is more scharpen).

Thank a lot. Francesco

[Ron Shaw]

I believe this lens is a Rodenstock Geronar(sp?), a 3 element lens, which are supposed to be pretty good. In the 165 mm focal length, it should have enough coverage for 4x5. It should be a sharp lens. If this person is a friend, maybe he can let you use it, and see if it meets your needs.