Jupiter 12

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dll927

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With several Zorkis sitting around, all of which have only their 50mm lenses, I'm considering a J-12 (35mm f/2.8). I'm assuming it is compatible with all of the bodies, from Z-1 to Z-4K. I also realize I'll have to spring for some type of finder for the lens - either one for that focal length or one of the turret-type beasts.

I'd appreciate feedback from anyone who has the J-12 and its attending finders.


At present I'm sort of shopping, eBay and elsewhere, for one these. I'll probably do something after I get this month's Visa bill paid off!
 
Very nice lens in LTM. Mine (1987 model, I believe) is usually mounted on my Canon P, which it fits nicely. No hood required, I find, because of the deep front element. Only thing to watch out for, of course, is the protruding rear element (due to the non-retrofocus design).

The only FSU body I've ever tried it with is my FED 3b, which is currently awaiting an RF adjustment. Just a test fit, no shots fired. Can't comment on the fit to the Zorkis, although I'd think, "why not?"

As far as my experience shows, if you find a late-model (black enamel) J-12 on the 'bay from a good seller for less than ~$80 shipped, buy it. Prices are usually above that range, but folks with more recent experience can correct me if I'm wrong. Enjoy.


Cheers,
--joe.
 
The J-12 is a great lens for the money with very rare cases of focusing problems unlike the J-9 or J-3. The KMZ or Rostov 35mm VF is very bright and used to be found for about $20-35 at eBay. I recently got another black J-12 [$65 delivered] from DVD Teknik [h_o_h_ol] took about 8 days to ship to the US. I was pleased with that transaction.

If you are into DIY, you can make your own 35mm finder from this link.

Good luck shopping!

Joseph
 
My favorite lens. I have a 1970's black one and it performs nicely. I use an Argus 3 turret finder that I found at a local flea market for 50 cents.

This was taken with my black J-12 on a Fed 2L
 
I think you'll like the 35mm. My Jupiter.12 is a 1952 variety, white. I've so far opted for using a Petri tele-wide or similar ext.VF. Works for me; good enough anyway, that I haven't gone looking for something else. If/when $ were available, I might opt upgrade to a CV, but at $10 a pop, I don't mind dropping a Petri in pocket or bag without worries.

Not great shots, but here are some J.12 samples ~~ (all w/ Zorki.1 )

http://photos1.blogger.com/img/218/7014/800/shadow of a game.jpg
http://photos1.blogger.com/hello/218/7014/800/father son.jpg
http://photos1.blogger.com/img/218/7014/800/sunflowers.jpg
 
I wanted the KMZ finder as more "fitting" for the FSU body and J-12, and it's really a rather nice finder too!
 
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