Hi,
This my first post, sorry I'm a lurker there.
I fancy a new 135 lens for 4x5, what would you recommend Fujinon or Rodenstock?
Regards JON.
Hi,
This my first post, sorry I'm a lurker there.
I fancy a new 135 lens for 4x5, what would you recommend Fujinon or Rodenstock?
Regards JON.
You might want to do a search for this topic. Here's one recent post:
http://www.largeformatphotography.in...ad.php?t=42041
Here is a list of modern LF lenses:
http://www.largeformatphotography.in...s/LF4x5in.html
All modern 135 lenses from the big four manufacturers are good. There are many good deals for used equipment now. The Caltar II-N is the same as the Rodenstock APO Sironar N, but is a bit cheaper used.
KEH has a good selection, also try the classifieds on this site and on APUG:
http://www.keh.com/OnLineStore/Produ...BCL=&GBC=&GCC=
I've owned three--the early f:5.6 Symmar convertible, the f:5.6 Caltar II-N (same as Sironar-N), and the Zeiss f:3.5 Planar.
The early Symmar and Caltar II-N are both very compact. The newer Caltar II-N is sharper and contrastier and has more coverage. Convertible Symmars in general are very good bargains. If you experiment with the Caltar II-N, you can also use it as a convertible, but with either lens converted to around 210mm, expect more of an "interesting portrait lens" than something really sharp.
The Planar is a big lens for a 135mm and doesn't have a huge image circle, but it's very sharp and fast enough for handheld work indoors.
Keep an eye out on this Forum or APUG as they do appaer from time to time. Alternately post a wanted advert, I found a mint Caltar-S II (Symmar) that way for an excellent price.
Ian
I have a Fujinon 135 f5.6 (I think it's SW) in a Copal shutter. It is tiny, light weight and very sharp. It is ideal for field work. It takes 52mm filters. Highly recommended.
-P
Preston-Columbia CA
"If you want nice fresh oats, you have to pay a fair price. If you can be satisfied with oats that have already been through the horse; that comes a little cheaper."
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