Schneider Symmar 180f5.6 Lens - convertible

[adrian_ngasi]

Hi there,

 

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I just acquired a Schneider Symmar 180f5.6 Lens (older version - 1970's I think) on Ebay and I was wondering what your experiences have been in terms of perfomance of this lens. It is in a Compur shutter. I will be using it as an exclusive lens for my 4X5 Speed Graphic. It is also for B&W only. What do you think its perfocrmance for colour negative will be?

 

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Thanks,

Adrian

[dhananjay_n]

I have the 210mm version of the convertible Symmar. These are pretty

good lenses, especially when used unconverted. When converted (which

is done by removing the front element), the performance is

compromised a bit. In my experience it works fine for B&W, a little

less well for color. If you're contact printing or making limited

enlargements (2-3 X), you will not notice much difference between the

converted and unconverted lengths. When you use it converted, use a

strong monochromatic filter (something like a 58 green) to deal with

the lateral chromatic aberrations. Otherwise, enjoy it - it will make

nices pics. Cheers, DJ.

[doug_paramore]

Adrian: I have the 180 about the same vintage and have found it to be

a fine lens. I only shoot black and white with it and it has proven

to be plenty sharp and contrasty. I have used it converted a couple

of times, always with filters, and it is fine for prints up to and

including 11x14. Enjoy it.

 

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Regards,