Reviewed by
carsten , Expert

Price Paid
$400.00 at private sale

Photography Experience
21+ years , Outdoor

Summary
Well, what a lens. This is the only long LF lens in a copal 1 shutter. ALL other lenses in the >360mm range are mounted in a huge copal 3 or similar monster. It's not just the weight factor though. Optical performance isexcellent; tack-sharp and wonderful contrast, multicoated; coverage is 486mm, which means it's big enough for 11x14" users.
I just wish it was more readily available.

Strengths
lightweight
small
huge coverage
excellent sharpness and contrast

Weaknesses
none really, apart from availability. Import direct via Japan, or if in the US check with Badger, MPEX or similar.
f12.5 is fine due to long focal length.
Need long enough bellows as it's not a telephoto design.

Similar Products Used
Goerz 480mm f11 Apo-Artar
Nikkor M 300mm f9
Rodenstock Apo-Ronar 360mm f9. Although the weight difference is only about 300g, it adds up when backpacking.
I'm using it in 4x5" and 5x7" and with the Canham 6x17cm Panorama back on a modified Arca-Swiss 5x7.

Customer Service
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