Hasselblad 50mm Distagon and various versions

[Andrew Moxom]

I am looking at saving for a 50mm Distagon for my new to me 500 C/M that is coming and I wanted to understand the differences between the various versions of Distagon's from the CT* through CF FLE versions.

I know that the CT* is a good lens, although spare parts are drying up for them. So I am thinking about a CF or CF FLE version. I understand the principle of the floating lens elements and that you can adjust them to best suit the distance you are focuing on, but will it truly improve overall image quality compared side by side with the regular non FLE, CF, and CT* versions? Is really a noticeable difference? Obviously Hasselblad thinks so, but I was hoping for feedback from owners who have tried both of these versions.

Also, except for the visible differences in barrel shapes. Are the CF and C versions of this lens identical in coverage, and overall design? I think they are but need confirmation. Also both are T* coated, but is the CF coating better?

I used to own a regular C variant of this lens many years ago, and it was superb. I am trying to decide on what direction to focus my money.

Any thoughts anyone?

 

[david b]

I've owned a C and a CF FLE. Both T*. I'm not really sure I ever saw a difference between to the two other than maybe slightly sharper corners.

But, I had a couple of C's at one point and one of them needed repairs and Hasselblad had a hard time finding the parts.

Go with a CF or CF FLE. Avoid the headache.

 

[TheFlyingCamera]

I have the CF non FLE version. I've gotten some great results out of it. The big deal with the FLE is for close focusing. If you use the 50 for quasi-macro work, it will make a difference, because it will avoid focus shift from wide open to when the camera stops down to actually take the picture.

 

[david b]

Oh, I forgot to mention I now own the current CFi FLE lens and the results are amazing. It's probably my favorite Hasselblad lens.

 

[Sirius Glass]

The C 50mm lens used a B-50 filter. The CF et al 50mm lenses use B-60 filters. That makes a difference in that you will only need a B-60 polarizer.

If you do not need the electronic interface, save your money and do not buy the CFi. If you need the electronic interface in the future, buy it then at a lower price.

Steve

 

[DrPablo]

I use the CT* on my 500 c/m and it produces majestic results. Given what a great bargain it is, I can't ever see myself even considering a different version of it.

 

[david b]

The CFi FLE uses B70 filters.

 

[Sirius Glass]

The CFi FLE uses B70 filters.

I stand corrected. Ok, another reason to buy a CF lens if you do not need the floating lens.

Steve

 

[edtbjon]

Well, the C version of the 50mm lens uses Series 63 filters, not bay50. These filters are used for the SWC, C 50mm and C 60mm lenses.
This is one of the reasons for me getting a CF 50mm instead of the C version, as Stever recommends. (I will not ever part from my SWC though, it's a really sweet little camera.)

Björn

 

[Sirius Glass]

Well, the C version of the 50mm lens uses Series 63 filters, not bay50. These filters are used for the SWC, C 50mm and C 60mm lenses.
This is one of the reasons for me getting a CF 50mm instead of the C version, as Stever recommends. (I will not ever part from my SWC though, it's a really sweet little camera.)

Björn

If you ever think of parting with your SWC just send it to me.

heck, I'll even spring for the shipping. [what a great guy]

Steve

 

[david b]

Forgot I had this T-shirt.

 

[Sirius Glass]

Forgot I had this T-shirt.

Where can I get me one of them??? :confused:

Interested readers want to know!

Steve