Anyone use a Nikkor Q 450mm f/9.0?

[Pasto]

I'm shopping for a portrait lens for 8x10. Would apreciate comments regarding the Nikkor Q 450mm f/9.0. I'm also not sure the difference between the Q and M versions of this lens...

Much appreciated.

 

[DanielStone]

I can't comment on the qualities of the Q-series 450, but my 450M is one of my most-used lenses for 8x10 and 4x5

” Cut you like a razor” sharp

Dan

 

[Pasto]

Thanks Dan. According to what I've read, it seems like the Q series predates the M, and the major difference is the coatings. I'd be great to hear from someone who's tried both for a comparison...

 

[karl]

It's a great lens. Same lens design as the 450 M. A bit long for a portrait lens on 8x10. I use it mainly as a landscape lens on my 8x10.

 

[Doremus Scudder]

I did a bit of research on this a while back. A Google search on Nikkor Q 450mm should turn up the threads here and on the LF Q&A plus a couple more.

It seems the 450mm Q is a four-element lens (Q is for Quad) and single coated. It doesn't show up in much of the Nikkor literature and seems to be a predecessor to the multi-coated M and likely the same Tessar design. Since there are relatively few air-to-glass surfaces in a four-element lens, it should be a pretty good performer. The shutter will be older, but as long as it is in good condition, should be serviceable.

I certainly wouldn't pay more for it that an M, however. I got my 450mm M for just over $400. I see them up on eBay for more all the time, but they don't seem to sell at the higher prices. You can likely pick one up for the same price as the few 450mm Qs I've seen advertised there. If you find one significantly cheaper, then jump on it. There is a Fuji L-series in 420mm length that might fit your needs as well. It's also a Tessar design and single coated. They appear for not too much on the used market from time to time. My Fuji L 210mm single-coated Tessar is as contrasty as my multi-coated plasmats.

Best,

Doremus

www.DoremusScudder.com

 

[Pasto]

Thanks Doremus. Your advice is consistent with that of Karl. I think I'll wait for a good deal on the 450M or pick something shorter for portarits in 8x10 (maybe the Nikkor 360).

All your advice is much appreciated.
Luigi