Graflex.org

newbie · Joined: 17 Apr 2003 Posts: 17

I ordered Planar 80mm/2.8 lens (graflex XL). I'm going to use it with my century graphic 2x3. Will this lens cover 2x3 at f11-f22 at infinity? How about wide open? Or i should use this lens only with 6x7 backs?

Dan Fromm · Joined: 14 May 2001 Posts: 2144 Location: New Jersey

newbie · Joined: 17 Apr 2003 Posts: 17

I recently got 2x3 century without any backs, so now i'm thinking wich rollfilm back to buy first - 6x9cm or 6x7.
Planar will arrive in 2 days, so i need to order 1 back sooner..
By the way, $100 for this lens in "like-new" condition - is it good price?

alecj · Joined: 09 May 2001 Posts: 853 Location: Alabama

That is a good price. Unfortunately, my experience was that it would not cover 2x3 if your standards are high. Those corners just won't be sharp, and will be darker. Graflex itself said:

"xl lenses are designed for optimum coverage of the 2 1/4 x 2 3/4 (Ideal) format. ..."

For 6x7, it is a wonderful lens.

Don't be alarmed by the size of the rear element. You mount that lens on your Century by unscrewing it, mount the front part on the camera, push the standard back, and mount the rear element from the back through the camera [having removed the back of course]. And, yes, the camera WILL close with that lens mounted.

If you're lucky enough to find one, the primary focusing scale for that lens is #30882-35. In addition, scales ending with 36 to 39 were also used for 80mm lenses, which weren't exactly 80mm.

[ This Message was edited by: alecj on 2003-09-22 20:05 ]

newbie · Joined: 17 Apr 2003 Posts: 17

Alecj, many thanks
Where can i get focusing scales? Should i look on Ebay or someone can give me link to online store?

alecj · Joined: 09 May 2001 Posts: 853 Location: Alabama

Since you know the number of the scale you want, I'd try WRITING Fred Lustig [do a search - he is mentioned lots on this board - no email either]. DON'T call, since he has been ill. For a small item like that, he may just sell you one [he's got the part, but he normally likes to install them himself - that was, when he was in good health]. He's the best source. Another might be Stephen Shuart. Not likely to find it on eBay.