Ilex Acutar 215/6.3

[altair]

Is the Ilex Acutar 215mm (8.5") f/6.3 any good? Sharp, soft? Coated, single or otherwise? What is it's coverage? How does it compare to offerings from Rodenstock, Schneider, etc? I'm looking to do tight headshots or porraits with it on my Horseman L45 or my Crown Graphic. Any feedback much appreciated, thanks!

 

[Dan Fromm]

It is a Commercial Ektar clone. Good grade of f/6.3 Tessar, in other words. Can't go wrong with a good grade of f/6.3 Tessar unless you need more coverage than it can give. Very competitive with, e.g., the Xenar (late f/6.1, better than earlier faster ones). Rodenstock made, IIRC, nothing in that line. Single coated.

Now go look up Commercial Ektar to find coverage yourself.

 

[altair]

Dan, thanks for your reply. I think I'll go and grab one. Let's see...