Kodak Anastigmat 203mm f7.7 in Compur Shutter

[Fotoguy20d]

I just received a 2x3 Pacemaker Speed that I bought on ebay and in the case with the camera was a lensboard that seemed to have been modified to add a roughly 2" long tube threaded at the end to accept the subject lens. The lens glass cleaned up easily enough and seems to be coated, and the shutter is working what sounds fairly reasonably on all speeds, even T&B. Question is whether this lens is any good and whether it would be better suited to a 4x5 format. I'm fairly new to medium and large format so any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Dan

 

[Jim Noel]

This lens will cover up to 8x10 when stopped down. It is a long lens for 2x3 being about double the normal focal length. It is just longer than normal lens on 4x5.

It is a very useful lens on each of these formats. Keep it and use it. You should produce many wonderful images with it.

 

[fschifano]

If it cleaned up nicely and produces a good image, you might just find it useful for portraiture with the 2x3 format. It's worth a try anyway. If you don't like it after that...

 

[Jim Fitzgerald]

I have this lens for my 4x5 and I love it. It is a real sleeper. Sharp as hell and has a great look.

Jim

 

[Dan Fromm]

Um, Dan I have a 203/7.7 Kodak Anastigmat in barrel (same lens as yours, but older and not coated) that I've tried on my 2x3 Speed. It is a very good lens. Yours is better because its coated. Use it and be happy.

 

[analogfotog]

I have what may be the same lens, a 203mm/8-inch Ektar, in a #2 Supermatic shutter.

I have made 11x14 dye transfer prints from transparencies made with that lens, albeit 30 years ago. I still use is, occasionally, but I don't consider the shutter to accurate after all these years, especially at high speeds.

One problem you will have with older, single coated lenses is flare, and it will be especially bad with lenses which have such great coverage as mine does. I have always used it on a 4x5-inch camera, but it is designed to be used on a 5x7-inch camera, with swings and tilts! So, be sure to buy or make a really deep hood for use with this lens