reccomendations for a fast portrait lens for graflex SLR

[darinwc]

I'm looking for a fast portrait lens for my graflex SLR.
I found out that the Kodak Aero ektar was too big. I imagine i will have the same problem with a pentac.

I am looking for a fast lens mainly because I find it hard to focus the RB, especially indoors. I have two f5.6 lenses so i am looking for something in the range of f3.5-f4.5.

Other than the f4.5 tessars/ektar/raptars, what else could I look for?

 

[Rolleiflexible]

Darin, a good source for Graflex SLR ideas is LEns + Repro here in NYC. Visit their site:

http://www.lensandrepro.com/USED/graflex.htm

They sell Graflex SLRs with a variety of fast lenses -- one interesting idea is a Cooke Anastigmat set in barrel, f/2.5.

another way to go is to upgrade your screen. I've used both the original screen and an L+R-installed Beattie screen and the Beattie is a bit brighter, though not impressively so.

When I was using these cameras, I took the hood off and focused directly on the viewscreen with a loupe -- I found it much easier than trying to get it right peering down the chimney hood.

Sanders

 

[DBP]

You might try one of the Industars, either the 37 (300/4.5) or the 51 (210/4.5).

 

[David H. Bebbington]

I'm looking for a fast portrait lens for my graflex SLR.
I found out that the Kodak Aero ektar was too big. I imagine i will have the same problem with a pentac.

I am looking for a fast lens mainly because I find it hard to focus the RB, especially indoors. I have two f5.6 lenses so i am looking for something in the range of f3.5-f4.5.

Other than the f4.5 tessars/ektar/raptars, what else could I look for?

You don't say what size your Graflex is - 4x5"? If so, I guess the minimum focal length would be 7" or so? I occasionally use a 6 1/2" Ross Xpres f2.9 which I am quite pleased with, I have it on a Sinar panel but it would fit on a 4" square panel too. As far as I recall, the f2.9 Xpres did not come in a longer length than 6 1/2" but there would certainly be an f3.5 made for a 4x5" reflex.

Regards,

David

 

[erikg]

A pentac will fit on a 4x5 graflex, it's tight but it works.

 

[darinwc]

Sorry I have a 4x5 graflex.

The lensboard is only like 3 5/8" square. Limit on focal length is i beleive 180mm (which is why a 178mm aero ektar will not work).

 

[removed account4]

hi darin

i use a 21cm tessar on my 4x5 .. it is f3.5 ...
maybe ineffablething will chime in, he uses a lot
of cool lenses on his graflex

- john

 

[Phillip P. Dimor]

I'd second the Pentac or Xpress. The Pentac will probably be easier to find.

 

[TheFlyingCamera]

I know someone who uses the 178mm Aero-Ektar on their Graflex SLR. He had the front standard modified a bit to fit the lens, but it works. It's a pain to mount/dismount the Aero-Ektar, but it can be done.