Nikkor M 200mm 8 versus Graphic Kowa 210mm

[kleinbatavia]

Thanks for the suggestions! Still need to test it, but have a "new-old-stock" computar 150 at my studio. Literally new in its box. Was contemplating selling it boxed as my g-claron seems to be all I need. Earlier someone pulled a disappearing act on a 210 computar, so no way to get one at the moment.

[Lachlan 717]

I'm still not sure that there are two types of 210mm GKs.

There could be two types of mounts, like there are for their longer lenses, being one that comes out easily and slots directly into a shutter and one that does not.

Are you sure that you're not referring to the Computar Symmetrigon?

[kleinbatavia]

Hi Lachlan, no not the 6.3 computar... Kowa seems to have made two version with diferent numbers of elements and ICs, you'll have to bear with me for a few days, but I'll look it up for you.

[Dan Fromm]

Like everyone else, I'm somewhat confused about Computar LF lenses. Here's a link to a discussion of the f/9ers with embedded propaganda: http://www.largeformatphotography.in...overage/page10

[Lachlan 717]

It is a very confusing subject, Dan.

I've compared a Computar 240mm with a (locked in) GK 240mm on 7x17". To my eye, the GK was sharper, especially in the corners, and had less fall off. This is counter to what I've read it should be.

But, back to the small 210mm "stuff", G Clarons are fine for colour. They, combined with the Fujinon WS (inner writing) 210s are bargains for 8x10"

[Drew Wiley]

The 200M is an absolute little jewel for 4x5 work. Wouldn't be realistic for larger film sizes. Tiny and very high contrast due to multicoated tessar construction. The 210 G-Claron would have a larger image circle, but only marginally cover 8x10, with very limited movement. It's a close-range modified plastmat, single-coated, but excellent at infinity too. I really prefer a 250 G-Claron or 240 Fuji A for a compact wide-angle 8x10 lens. Otherwise, the Computar or Kowa f/9 if you just have
to have 210 for 8x10 film.