You ULF People w/ Big Lenses... BIG QUESTION!!

Mike1234 · Nov 21, 2009

I'm assembling a 5x12in kit and my biggest diemna has been WHICH 210mm WA. I've bought a 210 Apo Symmar, 210 G-Claron, and 210 Graphic-Kowa. From what I've read the latter will give me the coverage and corner-to-corner sharpness I lust for and the former two will NOT. Please provide YOUR experience.

I also have:
72 SA XL for 5x10 (barely covers)
110 SS XL for 5x12 (barely covers)
150 SS XL for 5x12 (with wiggle room)
210's (as stated)
300 Fuji-C
450 Fuji-C
600mm plus (later... probably Nikkor 600/800 Tele)

PBrooks · Nov 21, 2009

Mike I think you answered your question. Go with the Kowa.

colrehogan · Nov 21, 2009

210 mm Graphic Kowa

I have used the 210 mm G-Claron on the 5x12 camera, but if I recall correctly, it doesn't have much in the way of movements. It's been a while since I've shot that particular lens on this camera. For the Kowa, I had some decent movements (again, it's been a while since I've shot this particular focal length on this camera), but I believe it was sharp corner to corner.

jp80874 · Nov 21, 2009

I traded my 210mm Super Symmar HM from my 8x10 up to the 210mm SSXL. It was as big in its case to carry around as the 7x17 camera. I never used it and eventually sold it. It will cover but I don't think it is worth the trouble to say nothing of the money.

John Powers

Mike1234 · Nov 21, 2009

I haven't had the opportunity to test yet but I strongly suspect, as others say here, that the Kowa is the winner. What I don't understand is that it's smaller than the G-Claron and yet covers more. They're "similar" designs, right?

photomc · Nov 21, 2009

Can only tell you what I have for my 7x11 - A Fuji 450C, 300C and a Doktor Optics 240, all have great coverage. Had a Caltar 375mm that also would cover (that said, I don't consider anything ULF until at least 11x14 - those between 8x10 and 11x4 I consider Exotic Large Format or ELF).

Mike1234 · Nov 22, 2009

I have the Fuji 300 and 450 C lenses. The only really difficult choice was the 200-210 focal length but with the input here and elsewhere I feel confident the Kowa is the best option. It looks like I'll be selling the 210 G-Claron and Apo Symmar soon but I want to test them against the Kowa first.

Richard K. · Nov 22, 2009

Mike1234, you could also maybe try to find a Rodenstock (Apo) Sironar 210 W. These have an 80 DEG field and will cover (336mm), more than the standard 210mm Plasmat. It may take a couple of months to find though...
Um, BTW, could you spare a box of 5x12 FP4? :>)

Mike1234 · Nov 22, 2009

Richard, I haven't bought any film yet. In fact, I still don't have the camera. I'll be looking for a roll of 5" aerial film very soon though.

Richard K. · Nov 22, 2009

Mike1234 said:
Richard, I haven't bought any film yet. In fact, I still don't have the camera. I'll be looking for a roll of 5" aerial film very soon though.

Are you having a camera made or a line on a used one?

Mike1234 · Nov 22, 2009

I'm saving money for a used Korona but unforeseen expenses are taking the cash.

You ULF People w/ Big Lenses... BIG QUESTION!!

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