Early Nikkor-SC 5cm F1.4's and Nikkor-SC 5cm F1.5 compared

I believe the Nikkor-SC 5cm F1.4 underwent a major change in optical formula around the 34xxxx block. Coatings were changed along the way. That means over 20,000 were produced using the original or a (?) slightly improved formula. Many more produced than what I had previously believed. The newer formula increased the diameter of the optics and fixtures. I would not have known this if the idiot that crushed the filter ring had not done so: I learned the diameter was smaller than the 344xxx lens that I wanted to use as a parts donor.
 
The obvious question that comes to mind is whether there were any significant changes in image quality corresponding to what seem like quite a few design changes throughout the long history of that lens or family of lenses. I wonder if anyone has tried to catalog that. Hmmmm.
 
Sonnar Brian said:
You mean like someone with 14 copies of Sonnar based Nikkor-SC 5cm F1.4 lenses...

On the list...
Click to expand...
What a wonderful idea, and a very fun, interesting sounding project. I've been hearing and reading about the physical and mechanical differences in these Sonnars for years. It would be great to finally see the practical results of so much innovative engineering laid out in a clear, easily understandable way. Good luck if you decide to take up the challenge. It certainly seems you're in a unique position to do it justice.

p.s., many reviewers try to cover all aspects of a lens' performance in a single review. An alternative is limiting reviews to just a few parameters -- like the central sharpness and global contrast tests I just did on the four f1.4/1.5 lenses. That way the reviewing process could be extended for months or years, if desired.
 
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I did something like that for the test of Planars- my Fence Post, and the Fence Slats. Boring- but shown central sharpness, focus shift, field curvature, and vignetting.
 
I rather reckon you are comparing apples with oranges here. But this thread is interesting, and the images are soooo good...

You are also excellent at providing good data. Always interesting, not to overlook greatly important to those of us who are, well, academically minded.

I will be following with great interest. Carry on, please.
 
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