0.95 current value?

harry01562

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I noticed that eBay and the forum classified seem to have a shortage of the 50/0.95 lenses, both the one designed for the Model 7's, with the RF cam, and the TV version, which has no focusing provision.

What is the current range for one of the normal type, in acceptable condition, no major defects, good glass and functioning, with just minor cosmetic blems?

I'm guessing a fair number of these have been modified, for both Leica mount, and for digital use (mount?).

I like the look of pics made with the lens, and it's certainly much cheaper to own than the alternatives. If you need the speed, for whatever reason, it will perform, as the TV version proved in both that medium and in movies, filmed on 35mm stock.

Are there any variants that have been produced, for special needs, like use with hi-speed flash?

I'd like to see a discussion.

Harry
 
Try searching sold listings on ebay. There are a bunch of sold ones listed there. You'll probably have to fish around to find ones matching yours but there may be some good info there.
 
As for variants of the Canon 50/0.95, year's back, when I was part of LUG (Leica Users Group), somebody mentioned that the U.S. military was a big user of the TV version of this lens. I have no idea if this is true or not. I doubt a special military version was made, but demand from the military may help explain why the lens was produced until December 1984.

As for value, this lens has a devoted following, mainly because of its long history, and very unique results. There are better high-speed lenses on the market ( any Leica Noctilux), but the signature of the Canon 50/0.95 is just so different.

I was lucky enough to stumble upon a TV version back in the late 1990's that I bought for $60.00 USD. I had it modified to a M-mount and it's now one of my favorite portrait lenses for use on my M-series Leicas'. I'll never sell it.

Jim B.
 
The one I've put a feeler out on was a TV C-Mount version which I had converted back in 2007.

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=136688

Funnily enough the person I bought it from had a bulk of them from a US military base in Texas (i believe) all TV versions.
I'm sure there are far better options but the Canon does have a very unique look to it.

hi do the seller still had some stock left? am interested in getting one
 
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