Kodak Ektar wide field 135mm

Any comments on the lens. I checked ebay and they seem to be a little uncommon and sell for over $500. Picking one up today along with a Kodak master view and 152 ektar and a commercial 8 1/2.

The 135mm Wide Field Ektar was designed for the 5x7 format, so it will cover 4x5 with no problem. You'll get the "sweet spot" of the 135, and the coverage is 229mm. However, it won't be much wider than the 152mm Ektar. If you want a wide angle lens for the 4x5, the 100mm f/6.3 Wide Field Ektar is a true wide angle, although lens movements will be a bit limited, since it's coverage circle is only 183mm; and as you probably already know, a 4x5 needs just over 162mm for full coverage.

The 135mm WF Ektar has gratifyingly more coverage than a Plasmat in the same focal length and not much larger. It is my go-to lens in that focal length for city work and architectural photography. I love mine, and 135mm is my most-used focal length.

If the one you are getting is in good condition, you'll love it too. The Supermatic shutter is robust and easily worked on if it needs a CLA (Carol Flutot). The main weakness of these older lenses is the soft coating, so do check yours to make sure it's in good shape. Too much damage to the coating introduces flare and image degradation.

Best,

Doremus