Choice between 210's -- Rodenstock or Nikkor?

[Matt Long]

I have an opportunity to purchase either a Rodenstock APO Sironar-N 210mm or a N ikkor W 210mm lens for approximately the same price. Both lenses are a 5.6 max. aperture and accept 67mm filters. Given that these lenses are used and in the same mechanical/cosmetic condition, I am interested in hearing what forum member s would prefer. I am leaning toward the Rodenstock, unless I hear compelling re asons to consider the Nikkor. FWIW, I already own a mixture of glass from both Nikon and Rodenstock, so brand loyalty really isn't an issue. I look forward to your comments. Thanks to all.

[jnorman]

these are both wonderful lenses, and i've used them both extensively. my current kit includes the nikkor 210/5.6 and i love it - i dont think an extra mm or so of image circle is a definitive decision point, but you really cant go wrong with either lens - just look at them, hold them in your hands, run through the shutter speeds and then just trust your instincts and buy the one you like better.

[Ellis Vener]

I really like the 210mm f/5.6 Nikkor W. I had a similarchoice to make a few years ago and went with the Nikon. I like the color (it is very very slightly warmer, which suits my needs.

[Ted Harris]

To give you the other side to Ellis' comment .... Severla years ago I had the opportunity to test both 210 and 150 Nikkor W, APO Sironra-N and APO Symmar lenses side-by-side. I didn't do anything very scientific, jsut some shots of a birdhoues and the stone wall next to it thta I frequently use to take test shots because I like the variations of texture and the tonal scale that the picture gives me. The Symmar's and Sironra's had virtuallyidentical performance. The Nikkor's were slightlyless contrasty. In fairness to the Nikkors, stopping down from f22 to f32 gave them equal cotnrast to the others but at f22 they clearly lost out to the Symmars and Sironars.

Ted