robin a
Well-known
Sirs,what is the differance between a black model and a silver one,if any?I want one in the worst way but am confused.Which is the one to buy?Going on a Fed2e/c.Any help is app.
OldNick
Well-known
As I understand it, the black J-12s are more likely to be the later models, and hence, may be a more modern lens. The first two digits in the serial number should indicate year of manufacture. I don't have experience with a lens for a Fed, but I have had a 1987 black lens in LTM mount for a few months, and I am very happy with it. Look at the recent aircraft photos in my gallery to see examples of this lens, used on a Leica IIIf, with Fuji 200 film.
Jim N.
Jim N.
peterc
Heretic
I have a chrome J12 in LTM and a black J12 in Kiev mount. I haven't seen any real difference in quality between the two lenses.
This photo is J12 in LTM.
This is J12 in Kiev.
Peter
This photo is J12 in LTM.
This is J12 in Kiev.
Peter
ZorkiKat
ЗоркийК&
The early "white" J-12, like the other "white" Jupiters from the late 50s to the early 60s had blue coating and tend to produce a slight greenish-yellow cast in colour photos. Not readily noticed when used with colour negative film.
Jay
Jay
V
varjag
Guest
My 1950s chrome Jupiters (Kiev mount) have amber coating. I could get a 1951 crhome J-12 from the same sale too, but having a black one already decided not to. Apparently it was estate of a dedicated photographer, with collection of excellent performers, and, I still regret it :/
But overall it depends more on your luck with particular sample.
But overall it depends more on your luck with particular sample.
andy_v
Established
I have both. Black one is significantly sharper.