michael_mensik Posted May 15, 2003 Share Posted May 15, 2003 Hi all, <br> I can't find an explicit confirmation of this: is it really? Even although I wanted to buy an original Grandagon-N if available somewhere here, I found the Caltar on KEH for what seems to me as a good price for EX condition. (If only the postage to Europe wasn't so expensive...)<br> And more, are KEH trustworthy regarding their grading system, shipping, paying by card via internet?<br> Thanks, Michael Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ralph_barker Posted May 15, 2003 Share Posted May 15, 2003 The Calumet site lists the lens as "Rodenstock Caltar II-N 75mm Lens f/4.5 With Copal 0 Shutter" and Calumet's OEM relationship with Rodenstock has existed for years. Whether there are any subtle differences in manufacturing or quality control, I couldn't say. I've purchased from KEH several times, and have found their ratings to be accurate and reliable, and their service has been good. They won't always be the least expensive place, but they have a good reputation from all I've heard. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
leonard_evens Posted May 15, 2003 Share Posted May 15, 2003 Kerry Thalmann has an article in the latest View Camera Magazine about Caltar lenses. It confirms that the Caltar-II N 75 f/4.5 is equivalent to the Rodenstock Grandagon-N. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
todd_caudle Posted May 15, 2003 Share Posted May 15, 2003 I have nothing but praise for KEH and their grading system. I've bought two lenses from them, both arrived in the same condition as advertised. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robert_ley Posted May 15, 2003 Share Posted May 15, 2003 I have to second everyone's opinion of KEH. They are very conservative in there rating. I bought what they called a "bargain" lens. When it came it was in excellant condition. Needless to say I was delighted. I would buy with confidence from them! Regards, Robert Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
leonard_evens Posted May 15, 2003 Share Posted May 15, 2003 I just checked their web site, and I'm tempted to buy it before you can, but I will resist. :-) Still, you might not want to wait too long to decide. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
david_goldfarb Posted May 15, 2003 Share Posted May 15, 2003 Heh. I had the same thought, Leonard. You think Micheal may be a mole working for KEH? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jerry_breault Posted May 15, 2003 Share Posted May 15, 2003 Michael, I have 3 Caltar Rodenstock lenses, all are wonderful and all were purchased from KEH. Don't wait too long. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michael_mensik Posted May 15, 2003 Author Share Posted May 15, 2003 Leonard and David,<br> I did not want you to snatch it under my nose :-) so I have reserved it in advance before asking here. The Caltar you see is yet another one.<br> Well, thanks to you all for your recommendations: I decided to confirm the reservation. And now I'll impatiently wait for the day the lens arrives :-)<br> Michael Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
david_karp Posted May 16, 2003 Share Posted May 16, 2003 If anything, KEH grading is very understated. If they say it is excellent, it is, and maybe even better than their description of the term. I think you will like the lens. I have the Grandagon-N version. I have a Caltar and would not hesitate to buy another one. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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