A very large early Carl Zeiss Jena Triplet lens, dating to approximately 1917 from the serial number range. This type of 50cm f/4.8 Triplet was produced during the First World War period and is associated with large-format and aerial photographic applications.
Specifications:
For modern use, this lens should comfortably cover 8×10, with considerably larger coverage reported when stopped down and/or focused at closer distances. Examples of this type are reported as being usable on formats up to around 16×20 inches, although actual usable image circle and corner sharpness will depend on aperture, focus distance, subject distance and individual lens condition.
Because published and user-reported coverage figures vary, buyers should carry out their own research and testing to confirm suitability for their intended camera, format and photographic use.
Suitable for large-format and ultra-large-format photography, wet plate/collodion work, portraiture, adaptation projects, or collection/display.
Cosmetically this lens is in clearly used condition and shows signs of use and age but overall has a nice patina.
Optically this lens is free from major damage, separation, haze and fungus.
There are some fine cleaning scratches and some more notable scratches to the front element
There are intel bubbles in the glass
There is internal dust but not loads and would blow out
The aperture works but it can be very stiff
Rear element shows areas of age-related surface bloom/weathering, giving a patchy appearance similar to coating deterioration. This is an uncoated lens, so the marks are believed to be deterioration/weathering of the glass surface rather than damaged optical coating. Please inspect the photographs carefully.
SOLD AS SEEN pleas message with any questions