Computar enlarging lens

thefizz · Aug 7, 2008

Is any body familiar with Computar enlarging lenes and how they compare to Rodagons and Componons?

I have been offered a 90mm Computar f4.5 but know nothing about them.

Thanks,
Peter

Lee L · Aug 7, 2008

Haven't used one myself, but several shorter length Computars are included in Ctein's ratings of the best enlarger lenses in 50, 55, and 63mm focal lengths. Ctein doesn't list lenses he hasn't used, or lenses that don't make his cut, so it's hard to know exactly where a lens that's not on the list falls.

Given the performance of the other Computars on the list, you'd probably find it worth trying.

Lee

Forgot citation: Ctein's ratings are in his book Post Exposure from Focal Press.

bsdunek · Aug 7, 2008

I have had a 75mm f4.5 Computar for about 40 years. Use it for all my 6X6 enlarging. It always seems sharp to me. I think you have a good deal.

GeorgesGiralt · Aug 8, 2008

Hi !
I own this lens. It is very good (I do not use it because I only do 6x6 and got a cheap 80 Nikon which helps getting bigger size prints)
If the price is correct, you can go for it. You may even catch a deal because as they're lesser known than the Nikon or Schneider or Rodenstock, you can ask for a reduced price ;-)
As usal check for fungus and the like .....
Have a nice day

thefizz · Aug 10, 2008

Thanks Less, Bruce & Georges.

thefizz · Aug 18, 2008

Well I received my 90mm Computar DL f4.5 lens today and its looks in great condition. It looks to be well built and there's not a spec of dust on it. Cost me less than $60

I'm looking forward to giving it a try and see how it compares to my 80mm Componon S.

Peter

MurrayMinchin · Aug 18, 2008

Sheesh :rolleyes: when are peeple gonna lern this is a an alog photografy site and wee dont talk abowt computar stuff hear??????

Murray

thefizz · Aug 19, 2008

MurrayMinchin said:
Sheesh :rolleyes: when are peeple gonna lern this is a an alog photografy site and wee dont talk abowt computar stuff hear??????

Murray

LOL.

Photo Engineer · Aug 19, 2008

I have the Computar 50 - 80 zoom and a 105 - 150 lens for my enlarger. I have been very happy with them over the 20+ years that I have owned them.

PE

kram · Mar 19, 2011

Hi, any upadte on how good the 90mm Computar DL f4.5 lens is?

DAP · Mar 19, 2011

Just a warning for those of you looking for computar lenses - make sure you check for lens separation before buying (seems to be an issue with the brand). That being said, I have a 65mm and an 80mm computar and I've been happy with both.

thefizz · Mar 19, 2011

My 90mm is working fine and I'm glad I got it.

Trask · Mar 19, 2011

If anyone is really hot for Computar info, I have a full line brochure that I could scan and send.

Tim Gray · Mar 19, 2011

I'd be interested in that... You mind if I throw it up on my site?

TimVermont · Mar 19, 2011

DAP said:
Just a warning for those of you looking for computar lenses - make sure you check for lens separation before buying (seems to be an issue with the brand). That being said, I have a 65mm and an 80mm computar and I've been happy with both.

I'll second this, all three of mine separated over time. Replaced with Fujinon EX's.

Trask · Mar 19, 2011

I don't mind if you put it up -- except that it make for more competitors for Computar lenses! I'll send it to you later this week, as I'm heading to the left coast imminently and won't be back for a few days.

kram · Mar 24, 2011

Hi Trusk,

Could you send me the brochure please. Many thanks

outwest · Mar 25, 2011

Back when I was testing a bunch of lenses to cherry pick a set, one of them was an 80mm f/4.5 Computar. While I picked another 80mm for enlarger use due to its overall image, there was nothing I tested in any focal length from 50mm to 180mm that could come anywhere close to the center resolution and contrast of the Computar. I kept it for macro use.

diazemmanuel · Feb 9, 2012

Computar lenses brochure

Trask said:
If anyone is really hot for Computar info, I have a full line brochure that I could scan and send.

hi trask!

glad i found this page. will it also be possible to get a copy of the computar brochure? got the computar 55mm f1.9. thank you in advance.

emmanuel

Tim Gray · Feb 9, 2012

I'd help you out, but I don't think I ever received a copy of it.

ChuckP · Feb 10, 2012

I have 4 pages of copied information I could scan. It would be nice if someone could put it up on the web. Send me your email address if interested. And do you need a jpg scan or a pdf file?

Trask · Feb 10, 2012

Yes, I know some of you asked for the brochure/booklet -- it's at least 12-14 pages. I haven't forgotten! But I did move house recently, so I have to dig it out. Thanks for your patience.

whojammyflip · May 17, 2013

any chance of getting a copy of this...I managed to get hold of a 65mm f3.5 Computar and would be interested in reading about it

Heywoodphoto · May 17, 2013

I'm glad you mentioned lens separation. What exactly do you mean? I have a Computar 105 4.5 and the aperture ring pops down and rotates loosely. Is this a normal function of the lens or is this what you're referring to? The lens otherwise seems fine and when the aperture ring is loose the iris seems to function correctly. Thoughts?

Patrick Robert James · May 17, 2013

Heywoodphoto said:
I'm glad you mentioned lens separation. What exactly do you mean? I have a Computar 105 4.5 and the aperture ring pops down and rotates loosely. Is this a normal function of the lens or is this what you're referring to? The lens otherwise seems fine and when the aperture ring is loose the iris seems to function correctly. Thoughts?

If you unscrew the front elements there is a retaining ring that holds the aperture ring in place. Slip it back into the groove it is supposed to ride in and it will be fixed. Careful that you don't lose the ball bearing while doing so. Keep pressure on the aperture ring after you remove the front elements and don't turn the lens upside down or remove the aperture ring. One of mine does this occasionally. I takes only a minute to fix.

Nearly every Computar I have seen exhibits some separation in the rear elements. Not really worth fixing either due to the cost of it. They are great lenses though. I have three.

Computar enlarging lens

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