Graflex.org

musashi · Posted: Wed Mar 10, 2004 1:23 pm Post subject:

Hi!
I found a Crown Graphic in perfect conditions with a Voigtlander 150mm Lantar
And I think it is a great deal, but, as always you have the last word.

What do you know and think about this particualr lens?

Thanks a lot!!!

I'll be waiting

Les · Joined: 09 May 2001 Posts: 2682 Location: Detroit, MI

The Apo Lanthar has a lot of "lore" attached to it and consistantly brings very high prices at auction. It is supposedly made with rare earth glass and therefore can out perform any other tessar around.

If the camera is perfect, near new and the lens is the same AND you are the type of person that can use a camera for a couple of years and never get a scratch, dent or smudge on it, then it will be worth the steep price because you can always find somebody that 'always wanted an Apo Lanthar" particulalry the 150mm.

If your like me and can get your new winter coat dirty walking in a snow storm, in a couple of years the camera will look "well used" and you'll lose most of the value.
I suspect a not so perfect Crown with a not so perfect Symmar will accomplish everything this set up would do at a fraction of the cost.

Apo Lanthars usually run around $300-$550, a pristine Crown $400+

A Good Crown $200, 150 Symmar $150-$250

So if he's selling it for $250, then beat the door down and give him cash, you can't go wrong. If he's selling it for $750 then you'll have to decide between your shooting habits, your bank account and your investment advisor.

Les

glennfromwy · Joined: 29 Nov 2001 Posts: 903 Location: S.W. Wyoming

The APO Lanthar has a reputation of being an astounding lens. I have seen photos taken with one and, indeed, they were eye poppers. Probably, as Les said, nothing that can't be accomplished with a good Symmar. If you shoot black & white, the Lanthar's legendary performance would be mostly wasted. It's forte´is really color work.
Lanthars are prone to separation problems and also coating problems. I would thoroughly grill the seller about condition if you can't hold it in your hand and see it yourself.

_________________
Glenn

"Wyoming - Where everybody is somebody else's weirdo"

musashi · Posted: Fri Mar 12, 2004 12:53 pm Post subject:

Guys!! You're the best.
The guy is giving me the "crown"+APO Lantar" in about US$210. Here in Colombia, not so many people understand the value of Vintage Items.
I think I will go for it.

Thanks a Lot!!!
I will tell you soo about this issue.
Thanks Again!!!