Jupiter-12 35/2.8 for a IIIc

[3 Olives]

I've read several recommendations of the Jupiter 12 lens, but I haven't read any specific reasons. Is a Jupiter-12 35/2.8 a good choice for a IIIc? I expect to have to buy a finder to use it.
Is the Black better than the Silver?
Would it be better to spend twice as much on a Leica or Canon lens? Thanks.

 

[mcgrattan]

I used to use mine on a IIIc with no problems. I swapped the camera and sold the lens some a little while back, but the lens worked well on the camera. I used an accessory finder, yeah.

This was the setup:

And this was taken with it [not a very interesting picture, sorry]:

 

[3 Olives]

Thanks for the reply. I take it that it didn't have to be shimmed. BTW, I like the photo.

 

[payasam]

I too used a J-12 on a IIIc without problems. Mine was silver. Some say that black ones are better, but I have seen no reason given for that. A Leitz or Canon 35mm lens will cost rather more than twice as much.

 

[ludoo]

I use a silver one on a Canon IIF, only shot one roll with it so far but it seems to work great.

 

[MV72]

Fits my IIIa very well. Pleased with the results. It's a black one used with a B&W hood and Helios viewfinder. Good combo that works for me.

 

[Graybeard]

Thanks for the reply. I take it that it didn't have to be shimmed. BTW, I like the photo.

The Jupiter 12 isn't the lens that often requires shimming. The 50mm J3 is the optic that is often mentioned as requiring shimming to focus properly.

I've used the J12 on several Barnack Leicas without problems. The black lenses have the advantage that being newer manufacture, they are less likely to need relubrication.

 

[malkmata]

I've used the black J-12 on both my Leica IIF and Canon P without any problems.

 

[ZorkiKat]

The black ones from the 1970s and later also have a more neutral (if not neutral) colour cast. THe older white Jupiters with 'blue' glass tend to put a yellowish-green cast on colour photos.

 

[xayraa33]

the J-12 lens is also good on Canon LTM cameras.

 

[K5HJ]

3 Olives,

I use the J12 on a IIIf and it turns out that the viewfinder covers the 35mm frame pretty well. No need for an external finder. I assume the IIIc is similar.

I ended up with an extra J12 in good condition if you are interested in a trade or sale.

Randy

 

[David Hughes]

I'll go along with the others. They are nice lenses. Make sure you get both caps with them as they can cost a fortune bought later on. And as for the price of the black plastic box bought later on...

BTW, if the rear lens cap is missing the plastic tub that the 35mm cassettes come in can be chopped down and will fit well.

Regards, David

 

[wolves3012]

I've used a black J-12 on my IIIC with no problems, it's a nice lens with good contrast, sharpness and saturation. Some claim it's prone to flare but my examples don't seem to be...