Need a Sigma lens element

Hi everyone,

I've recently acquired a Sigma 16mm Filtermatic lens with a front element that has the coatings damaged. I am interested in fixing this lens which apparently requires a replacement for the damaged element. This is the model in which the hood unscrews and allows the removal of the front 3 glass elements. If anyone has one with clear glass I am interested, or if you have an idea of where I can get one please let me know. It is for the Canon FD mount. Thank you.

Your going to have to buy another lens to find that. I would bet some serious money you can search for a few decades and never find a separate lens element for that lens. And if you buy another lens the easiest way to fix the one you have will be to throw it away and use the one you just bought.

And if you buy another lens the easiest way to fix the one you have will be to throw it away and use the one you just bought.

 

Unfortunately, all too true, if Sigma can't help you.

In a bid for optimism over experience I'll hold out hope, at least for another week or two. I'm using it on a Nikon and their fisheyes are so danged expensive I was trying to get away on the cheap. Thanks for your reality tinged thoughts.

I'll just add that I have tried shooting some lenses with horrible condition problems, and the results are often much better than anyone could reasonably expected.

 

Have you tried shooting with the lens as is? I might turn out to be usable, if not ideal.

Edited April 11, 2018 by JDMvW

Hi again,

Yeah, I have tried. There's a large center left area of distortion. I'm ready to bite the bullet and pick up a Nikon fisheye, but I just hate spending so much money on something I will use sparingly.

Before buying a Nikon lens consider the Sigma 15 f/2.8 EX lens. Based on reviews I've read it is as good or better than the Nikon equivalent. I've been using one for the past 7 years. Picked it up on eBay for a good price when the EX line of lenses were being replaced with the newer EX DG lenses. Here's the link to Thom Hogan's review of the Sigma fishey; Sigma 15mm f/2.8 Review by Thom Hogan

Link didn't work, it's www.bythom/15lens.htm

Well, I gave up on the sigma and picked up a Rokinon 14mm. The pics I've taken so far have been really impressive. It's a manual focus, but has a chip that helps with exposure. Very sharp and clear for a $300 lens. I think I will like this lens, and thank you all for your help.