Is it true?

[Jochan]

I am new to Zorki and looking for additional lens. I found there are some claimed "NEW" Jupiter lens selling in the bay (Black Jupiter 9 and Silver Jupiter 12). Are they really new? NOS? Please give me some advices.

 

[Richard Black]

The sellers are just stating the condition of the lens...as in new. These lenses were made prior to the fall of the Soviet Union. There could be a shop somewhere in Mother Russia that had not sold all their stock, but I think that is doubtful. I've owned and still use several Russian lenses and like them alot.

 

[varjag]

I believe that some traders acquired stocks of unsold lenses from the shops and warehouses in early 90s. I've got a Helios-103 recently and it was indeed "new" despite being manufactured in 1982: no signs of use on the barrel, pristine glass, came with the foam-clad bakelite case, both caps and original manual.