Mamiya RZ 180mm different versions

[kahheng]

Can the fine folks here enlighten me to the optical differences in the

three (or really just two??) versions of the 180mm f4.5Z?

 

I had a look through a used retailer's catalog in the RZ section and

came across the following:

 

180mm f4.5

180mm f4.5W

180mm f4.5W-N

 

The 180mm W looks significantly different from the W-N version (the

latter has a more recessed front element).

 

Can anyone comment? How much better is the last version?

[enrico_pocopagni]

Hi, Kah

I have a 180 f/4.5 W-N. It is a Tessar lens (four elements in three groups optical scheme). It is a very sharp lens with more than satisfyng contrast.

The two previous versions of the lens are substantially the same (W stands for Wider f-stops gaps on the aperture ring, making easier to set fractional f-stops). The optical scheme, as stated by Mamiya RZ67 owner manual is made of five lenses in three groups. Geometrical characteristics (angle of coverage, minimum focusing distance) are the same, but I never tried this lens. Considering the release dates, I hope the last (N stands for New) is the best.

Regards. Enrico