Do you have a Bronica Zenzanon 50mm f2.8E lens?

I recently bought a Zenzanon 50mm f2.8E lens for my Bronica ETRS.

<p>

The advert described it as an "E". The supplier maintains it's an "E" and their invoice states that it's an "E". The box says it's an "E" and the serial number on the box corresponds with number on the lens. But, the lens itself is only marked "MC".

<p>

It's been suggested that an "MC" lenses are inferior, or predate, "E" lenses and I realize that "EII", and the more recent "PE", lenses are better than "E" lenses.

<p>

I would like to know if the "E" lenses were marked "E" or not! I would really like to know if my lens is an "E", or not!

<p>

I'm getting conflicting advice - and a bit confused! Some people say one thing, others say something else.

<p>

Surely, someone out there must be an expert on Bronica lenses?

<p>

Please help!

<p>

Thank you.

Ron,

This is a response, rather than an answer, to your question. Zenzanon lens marking has caused enough confusion.

MY UNDERSTANDING is that E stands for ETR system. The earliest version is marked MC. Then soon after a while Bronica felt that MC doesn't mean too much so that deleted the it and marked E instead. I heard there are also E-I and E-II but in fact I have NEVER seen one marked with either E-I or E-II .

I am currently using a 75mm E and and a 150mm MC. I bought my 150mm MC used after hand-on comparing with a 150E (which is half stop faster but cost around 20% more) . I have also rented a 50mm MC before for a low-budget assignment, it was sharp and contrast, and I got very satisfactory result from it.

What I can tell is that I don't feel MC superior or inferior to E.

I have a 50/2.8 "MC" lens that I'm very happy with. I believe that if you are a Bronica user, then you're as confused about their marking system as I am. Instead of worrying about "MC", "E", "E-II"..., go out & shoot with it & see if you like it. (you probably will) I have blow transparencies up to 16 x 20 with no problem.

Good luck & have fun with your lens!

Update ...

<p>

Several dealers have told me that the "E" and "MC" lenses are one and the same (ie Bronica have only ever made 50mm lenses that are marked "MC") and Bronica currently supply "PE", which is a new improved optical design.

<p>

As my 75mm is an EII and I want a wide angle lens that is at least as good, I returned my "MC" lens to my supplier MXV, who very were understanding and gave me a full refund - all credit to them.

<p>

I have since purchased a "PE".

<p>

Many thanks for everyone's help, including those who e-mailed me privately about this.