kdellaquila
Member
I'm looking to get one of these for a Contax IIIa and wanted to know if it is coupled to the rangefinder or scale focus only. Thanks.
Biogon 21 f4.5 question
- Thread starter kdellaquila
- Start date
- Latest activity Latest activity:
- Replies 5
- Views 1K
Vickko
Veteran
My memory says they are coupled to the Contax rangefinder.
dexdog
Veteran
definately rangefinder coupled
RObert Budding
D'oh!
At f/5.6 the hyperfocal distance is just under 9'. Not much need to focus.
Tom A
RFF Sponsor
I have it and, yes, as stated it is coupled to the rangefinder. Build quality is outstanding - all heavy brass. Ergonomics are a bit of a disaster - the distance scale and aperture are engraved in miniscule numbers, black on a chrome background (unless you can find one of the all black ones - rare). Optical performance is very good - even by todays standards - virtually distorsion free - only surpassed by the new Zeiss ZM 21f4.5.
I dont know if they ever made a hood for the Rf version of this lens - never seen one. It can flare in strong light, but in general use - not a problem. I use it with Nikon Rf's - the slight difference in focus between the Contax and Nikon is easily covered by the f4.5 aperture.
Edge fall off is modest for a 50-60 year old lens. Check the lens for optical "clean" glass and focus - the helicoids can "gum up" and get stiff as can the aperture ring. The original Zeiss finder is less than stellar - a bit dim and "clunky" - get one of the VC 21mm finders instead.
Great 21 all in all.
I dont know if they ever made a hood for the Rf version of this lens - never seen one. It can flare in strong light, but in general use - not a problem. I use it with Nikon Rf's - the slight difference in focus between the Contax and Nikon is easily covered by the f4.5 aperture.
Edge fall off is modest for a 50-60 year old lens. Check the lens for optical "clean" glass and focus - the helicoids can "gum up" and get stiff as can the aperture ring. The original Zeiss finder is less than stellar - a bit dim and "clunky" - get one of the VC 21mm finders instead.
Great 21 all in all.
Tom A
RFF Sponsor
Zeiss Biogon 21mm f4.5 on a Nikon S2. Kodak EK 5231 (+X movie stock). D96 developer.
