lens coating separation?

Hello,
First I must say that I love this site, it's got tons of useful information.
I've acquired an Omega D5XL enlarger and a couple of lenses. I noticed that the Schneider Componon-S 150mm had an area covering roughly 1/4 of the lens that looked like there was oil inside the front element. After checking around this website and others, I think I've figured out that the coating is separating from the glass. I haven't been able to test anything yet because I'm still in the planning stage of building my darkroom.
Am I right in my diagnosis, and if so will this be a problem for printing?
Thanks, Adam

I've never heard of coating separating from the glass. Either two lens elements are separating, or you have a very thin wedge-shaped film of gunk on the lens.

Spot on with your diagnosis. Not an uncommon problem with (usually German) lenses from a few years back, causes by the failure of the balsam cement holding the elements together. The good news is that the lens will be still entirely useable, the problem is mostly cosmetic, can cause a slight loss of contrast or flare, which shouldn't show with an enlarging lens.
I have a Tele Rollei where the separation covers nearly all the lens, and a Voigtlander Septon that is about half affected, both lenses still take great photos, so I wouldn't worry about your Componon....which is an excellent optic BTW.
Tony

I think this is called 'schneiderities' or something like that. My Super-Angulon 75 mm is showing the same symptoms of that disease but is till taking good pictures (technically at least...).

Philippe

leicam5 said:

I think this is called 'schneiderities' or something like that. My Super-Angulon 75 mm is showing the same symptoms of that disease but is till taking good pictures (technically at least...).

Philippe

Click to expand...

No, it's not Schneideritis. The symptoms of Sch... is some white dots forming where the lens barrel is in contact with the lens. And even the worst case or Sch... will not affect picture quality. (Do a search for the term and there should be plenty of illustrated examples on Sch...)
Ole and Tony are on the spot with their diagnosis. It sure looks like a balsam separation, which seems serious, but it will probably not affect the results at all. The only thing bad about this damage is that the value of the lens is very low if you decide to sell it.

(After having a closer look at the picture, there seem to be some Schneideritis too, but these may be reflections. Again, nothing to worry about.)
//Björn

Definitely NOT Schneideritis but it looks exactly like the seperation/delamination I have with two Rodenstock lenses only far more severe. It's not economic to repair as these lenses can be found for lowish prices in excellent condition.

Ian