Fungus or Separation??? 162mm Wollensak Raptar

[KN7yeEBJ]

<Question: If I found another 162mm Raptar with a good rear element, could I just unscrew it and replace the "bad" rear element on the one I have now? >

Don't see why not.

[Pete Andrews]

It's separation. The small area affected probably won't make that much difference to the results from the lens.

[J. P. Mose]

Jonathan,

If you decide that you have your heart set on this lens and want to re-cement it (whether it makes economic sense or not), I would contact Steve Grimes at: www.skgrimes.com

I had a 190mm Ektar (auto style for Super D Graflex) with a major separation between the two rear elements and Steve re-cemented the lenses. It's as good as new. His work is outstanding....I have never heard any complaints! I believe the subject 162mm lens is a Tessar type design (same or similar to the 190mm Ektar that I had repaired) which can repaired. Good luck.

J. P. Mose

[Jonathan Bujndick]

For those that read this in the future, I sent the lens to Steve Grimes to have the rear element repaired. It came back fast, at a reasonable price, and looking like brand new!! Some mentioned that the lens was not worth the cost of the repair, but I disagree. 203mm image circle, small, light, and very sharp! I look forward to many years of service from this lens, and the total cost of purchase, and repair was less than $200. Thanks for all the help.

All the best. Jonathan