Originally Posted by
Drew Wiley
You need to be more specific. There was more than one version of this. If it was indeed a Swiss-made Kern (Schneider US was merely the marketing entity), there was a single-coat version in Copal 3s shutter, and after that, the final multi-coated version most often seen in Compur 3 shutter. I disliked the Compur shutter because it had no T setting, and had a distinct buzz vibration to it.
These lenses have a tiny bit of focus shift wide open, so I recommend focussing them at f/11. The contrast rendering is high, especially the MC version, making subtle tonal distinctions exceptionally good. With color film, the balance is slightly warm. I've used both types. Unless you are pointing them head-on, with minimal movements, these lenses are scant on sufficient coverage for 11X14, but are quite suitable for most 8x10 applications. If it was "handed down" to you, you are quite lucky. Both now sell for very high prices.
There will be a problem attaching filters. I have simply made slip rings which slide over the front barrel and accept 67mm filters threads. But if you don't know how to do that, an outfit like SK Grimes could make one for you.
Bookmarks