Zeiss APO Tessar 840mm

Hello Everyone,

I am wondering if I can get ANY information/opinions/comments regarding the Zeiss APO Tessar 84cm (840mm) lens.

I will post this in the Ultra Large Format Forum also.

Thanks,
Shane Knight
www.shaneknight.com

Shane,

I never heard of a 840mm Apo Tessar, but played a bit with the 600 and 750mm versions, coated and of acceptable weight due aluminum barrels. The performance at infinity is very good, used on Plaubel Profia or Sinar with behind the lens shutters. If the 840mm comes in a brass barrel then weight should be considered, and if the glass is uncoated due to age of lens i.e. definitely over 50/60 years old, I would not go too high in price or look for a better alternative.

Joerg

Shane,

The reprint of the 1930's Zeiss catalog doesn't list a 840mm Apo-Tessar. Here is the following description from the catalog on the Apo-Tessars:

The Apo-Tessars are well corrected with respect to all those qualities which affect their performance as process lenses, and their residual errors are reduced to within very narrow limits. Focal lengths listed: 24cm, 30cm, 45cm, 60cm, 75cm, 90cm, 120cm, (all f/9) and a 180cm f/15.

I have the 30cm (300mm) and the 45cm (450mm) versions of the Apo-Tessar both in brass barrels. The 450mm is one heavy lens so I'd make sure the one you are considering comes in a aluminum barrel.

Thanks Joerg and Sharpnikkor for your post and information. The lens will be arriving soon, and we'll see what it can do (for 8x10.)

Thanks,
Shane Knight
www.shaneknight.com