[pure-silver] Re: Advice on an 150mm enlarging lens.
- From: "Joseph O'Neil" <joneil@xxxxxxxx>
- To: pure-silver@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
- Date: Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:59:23 -0500
On 2/12/2012 6:20 PM, Bogdan Karasek wrote:
Hello,
Since most of the group use enlargers and hence, have some
knowledgeable about enlarger lenses., I come seeking your advice.
I shoot B+W , and been shooting 4x5 for the past 2 years, but more and
more now. 35mm seems like a submiature. Right now, I use an Omega
D2v and a SK Componon 135/5.6 and a SK Xenar 150/4.5.
A SK Componon 150/5.6 is available. Should I get the Componon 150
to replace the Xenar? The 150 is the one I use more often than the
135, so it would be my principle lens in that format.
I also have a Wollensak Velostigmat 162/4.5 that came with the
enlarger. How does it compare to a Componon and Xenar?
Thanks for any comments.
Cheers, Bogdan
I have a 163mm Wollensak Enlarging raptar in near mint shape that is
my favourite enlarging lens. I do have Rodenstocks, el-Nikkors and
Schneiders in all sizes form 50mm to 1450mm, but I don't know why, that
Wlloensak is my favourite of them all. Bear in mind this is NOT the
same lens you ahve, so I don't know how it compares - you ahve to try
and see for yourself.
I know that sounds almost like heresy, but I think Wollensak gets a
bum rap for two main reason. First, they made a wide range of lenses
from excellent to poor quality. Secondly the Wollensak lenses, like
Kodak lenses, were the "workhorses" for many years for school, street
level commercial labs, press photography, and so forth. As a result,
it is very hard to find a good Wollensak or Kodak anything in near mint
shape. But if and when you do, you will be amazed at the quality.
My old Kodak monorail was used 2-3 times then put away and forgotten
about for over 50 years. Using it brand new - what an incredible
camera, when everythign works on it. Also I ahve an old Wollensak - 15"
I think - telephoto lens for 4x5, again, in near mint shape, and amazing
lenses to use.
So if you get the right one, some of these older lenses can be
amazing, but it is a matter of some trial and error, and also finding
one that hasn't been shop worn to death form use
joe
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