Hi Nigel, I dont think i can afford to watch you much more as you are costing me money each time I do. I have just bought the flexagon 35mm which as you said is wonderful. Thank you Ken

I recently refurbished my M42 20mm f4 Flektogon. As received, the inside was filthy, with silt embedded in the dried-out grease (as well as just about every mechanism inside the lens). Initial attempts to flush the silt out of the helicoid (using naphtha) rinsed lots of silt out, but not enough. I ended up removing all the glass (which cleaned up with isopropyl alcohol, followed by distilled water), and cleaned and regreased the helioid, and cleaned the aperture mechanism (the shutter blades were extremely sluggish). CZJ lenses of that era used springs to both open and close the blades, so they are very sensitive to sticky lubricant. Also, I needed to insert a paper shim while re-installing the aperture ring, to hold the click-mechanism ball and spring down, then pulled the shim out once the ring was in place. Considering the low price I paid for the lens, I ended up with a wonderful lens. If anyone is interested, I could supply additional repair details.

@PrentisRyanSnead

2 жыл бұрын

I recently acquired an M42 20mm f2.8 Flektogon and I'm having some issues with the aperture being stuck wide open. Contemplating whether I should attempt to repair myself or send to someone who knows what they are doing. Wouldn't mind sending in my entire set of CZJ lenses for a CLA...

@martinward1055

2 жыл бұрын

Hi John, that sounds great. What grease do you use? Thanks

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I'd certainly be interested to know who serviced it - I'd like to get this one into good order!

@hulldoctor

2 жыл бұрын

@@martinward1055 I use #10 grease from Japan Hobby tool (for helicoids with tight tolerances), and MicroLubrol Helimax-XP with teflon for looser helicoids. I try one on the helicoid and then judge the feel (too loose, too stiff) and adjust the grease, if necessary. Alcohol and an old toothbrush works pretty well to clean out the threads, and a microfiber cloth gets the last bit of alcohol-softened grease (and dirt) out. For really dry grease, I use naphtha (lighter fluid) before the alcohol.

@hulldoctor

2 жыл бұрын

I have been doing all of my servicing, going deeper into the lenses as I gain experience and courage. I credit you with giving me the confidence to try my own repairs; thank you! The Retro Foto House videos have been extremely helpful (especially for Soviet Block lenses). I haven't gotten too far into my Exakta-mount lenses, so I can't offer too much advice, but I can often get aperture blades working by removing the glass, then flushing the mechanism with naphtha while working it, then flushing with isopropyl alcohol while working it, shaking out the excess solvent and waiting for it to dry. The trick is doing the flushing without dissolving too much of the helicoid grease.

love your channel keep coming back for your excellent perspective. Very much appreciate your experience. I'm going to have to pick one of these up

Thanks a lot for this interesting and detailed video ! Using the Flektogon 4/25mm and Flektogon 2.8/20mm on Praktica, Fujica and Contax cameras. Both are great and wonderful lenses. I will never sell them. So much joy to use them !

This is my second comment on this video. My 20mm f4 lens is working out great. So far I managed to straighten the filter threads and with your help from this video, I figured out how to get the front ring off. Took it apart and gave it a good cleaning. Thank you for the video and don't worry about not releasing one this week.Your videos are always worth a second (or 3rd) watch.

@dedskin1

27 күн бұрын

do you have any pictures , what i see here looks rubbish , i dont see anything sharp , on the contrary its soft focus . I dont know is it due to YT or locked at F4 , maybe it needs F6 to give better look .maybe you have some pics online

I've got it thanks to you. Fantastic lens. Love shooting it with my monochrome MaxMax Fuji XT2. Great recommendation sir! I paid a bit more for my sample, $399 USA dollars but it's mint. Picked it up two years back. Thanks again for the suggestion. It's magnificent.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Very glad you're enjoying it Brent!

I appreciate the review. I was just looking into this lens.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, glad it was useful!

Just discovered your channel and I love it! I already watched 5-6 videos. I bought sony a6000 3 months ago and I'm very happy with the camera. Greetings from Mexico!

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

The a6000 is a lovely camera - enjoy! Glad you're enjoying the channel!

I just received my 20mm f4 from a nice and honest Ebay seller today. Mine has a few issues. Like bent filter threads, possible issue with the coatings too. However, the price was good so I decided to take a chance. I don't have the exakta to m42 adapter yet, but I still managed to fire off a few test shots while holding the lens up to my M42 to M43 helicoid adapter. WOW! You weren't kidding, the blur is like magic. I also really love the extra close focus. I'm very happy and can't wait to use this lens with the proper adapter. Thank you for the wonderful video on this lens. I agree, you can't afford to not get this one!

I love the f2.8 version. I use it a lot, esp in BnW simulation mode. The images are always great. It is much more expensive than you mentioned, - if it comes up for sale, it is closer to 400€ and above.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I didn't realise, thanks for the correction!

Good video. I only have one CZJ lens in my collection, but it quickly became my favorite vintage lens. It's the 50mm Pancolar mark 1, (though sadly it didn't have the radiation coating.) Been watching eBay for a good deal on one of those wide angle CZJs. Back in my film days, I used to have a Canon 50mm f1.4 that would bleed oil onto the aperture blades. When this would happen, the blades wouldn't close at all. I used to have to clean them about every 6 months. Your idea of cleaning the blades is definitely worth checking into.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

There's certainly some servicing needed on this one, for sure!

Damn, right on. I purchased one 3 days ago. It's coming from East Europe, 35 days for delivery no doubt... A perfect addition for my Sigma FP...

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

It's a very cool lens, I think you'll enjoy it!

I have found removing fungus I first clean the lens with good lens cleaner and then use distilled clear vinegar. I use lens paper with the cleaner and a cotton bud with the vinegar. After I use more lens cleaner. The Isis is probably jammed with dried grease . Great channel I started photography when I was 7 back in the early 60's did my first pro photography job when I was 18.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

One thing's for sure, this one certainly needs a bit more work! Thanks for watching!

I found that with wide angle lenses you can be a little more candid for street photography even although you might be closer to people because as long as they aren't at the centre of the frame, it doesn't look like you are pointing the lens right at them.

Fantastic channel... I have a Tamron SP 17mm f/3.5 ( 151B ) Minolta MD Mount Adaptall 2 Lens.... A great Lens I took it to Thailand the last time I used it. Paired with my Minolta XD7 and Minolta X700.... Always had great results....

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I've heard that's a nice lens - enjoy!

Great episode as always! I really look forward to your videos each weekend, although due to the flange distance of my DSLR only the m42 lenses are really working with me.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

You're in luck then - there are hundreds of great m42 lenses to choose from!

Another thought, which your videos clearly demonstrate is that it is quite simple to carry out routine maintenance on these lenses - if done carefully with the right equipment, cleaning agents and methods. So as to promote cleaning of fungus early upon onset, before more irreparable damage is done. On the architectural theme, to cite the S.P.A.B. society… “faith in maintenance”.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Indeed, prevention is always better than cure!

Loved this episode! Thank you for sharing the process of lens maintenance. (Also, great taste in cameras to display :-) ) Peace.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Tobias, glad you enjoyed it!

Thank you

I have its big brother, the CZJ 50/4 for use on the Praktica Six. I also use it, via adapter, on a Mamiya 645, where it produces some outstanding results. Of course, it has a dud aperture mechanism. However, from what I find by digging around it's an easy fix, simply taking the rear mount off and re-affixing an operating pin into place. It's on a shortlist of roundtuits. I think the same eejit designed the mechanism on yours.

I've recently got the f2.8 version for 250€ in pristine conditions, totally worth it, I suggest to use it on Full Frame cameras to keep the focal distance

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

It's a wonderful lens - enjoy!

Thanks for a very nice video, reminded me I still have my 20mm f2.8 MC Electric from my old Praktica EE2 the shutter died and I regret dumping it. Just mounted the lens on my Fuji XT20 and it looks very cool, can't wait to try some shots with it. I also have 35mm, 50mm Pancolor and 135mm all Electric and 29mm Pentacon and quite a collection of Praktica cameras.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Many of the CZJ lenses exceed anything produced by Western companies in image quality - they're really quite something!

Accept it as it is, lovely lens and pics, beautiful. old and still impressive.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I think that might be the way to go with this one!

I lucked into one with a dent in the front for under 100euro, coatings are perfect still, and it is not as hazy as this one. Mine is missing the connecting link for the aperture, so it's stuck wide open. I sometimes take a few minutes and stop it down to f8 for normal wide shots, but with super close shots this lens is magnificent wide open. This lens will get you inches away from a subject. I had loan of the f2.8 version but prefer the f4. mine is 1964 zebra style EXA mount.. Love it to death!

I always had a deep gearcrush on that 20mm Flektogon, even as a teen, but never had the means to get one or really use it the way it should be used. Now that I'm shooting MFT digital, I have even less use for the old 20mm CZJ... but I still love looking at that huge front element.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I know what you mean - it's a pretty nice front element!

Mine just sent in for service, to make this oldtimer fit for the future. Also occassionally stuck aperture. I intend to use it for architecture photography (the old industrial buildings of my city staged with the appropriate tool ;) ). One remark, the lens actually shines in black & white photography, what it was build for.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

The perfect tool for architecture photography - enjoy!

@PrentisRyanSnead

2 жыл бұрын

May I ask who you sent the lens to? I've been looking for someone to service my M42 20mm f2.8 version of the lens in the U.S. Thank you in advance!

I just completely serviced my exakta Flektogon 4/20 which also had a slight aperture problem. I took everything apart, cleaned it, polished and relubed the threads, cleaned and polished the aperture blades, finetuned the dampening with various greases and adjusted the aperture ring feel. Luckily the glass was as new, as that is the only thing not really fixable. The aperture is easiest to understand and fix by removing the 4 screws around the mount and removing the mount, with the preset button still assembled and attached. No springs will fly out as the Flektogon hardly contains any (only on the aperture lever inside, but it's secured, and the shutter button as you've shown). It is likely that somebody put the aperture together in the wrong way, as it takes a look or two to really understand how it should work. After taking the back off, press the spring loaded (vertically rotating) lever (that is normally pushed by the shutter button mechanism) and see if it's smooth and snappy. If not snappy, clean the aperture mechanism (don't lube; must be 100% clean and smooth). If it is snappy, then it's either that the shutter button assembly is put together wrong (see if the little lever that is supposed to connect to the lens' lever is working as expected), or the connection between the shutter button lever and lens lever is not correct (misaligned by just half a mm and it will not work). I suspect the problem is the latter, if it sometimes works and sometimes doesn't. When it works, the levers latch into eachother correctly, and other times they 'miss'. This can also be affected by focussing closer or further (in manual mode). I could have a look if you want.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Gosh, that's a very kind offer that I'd be very glad to take you up on - please message me on zenography11@gmail.com to arrange!

@FrankyFeedler

2 жыл бұрын

@@zenography7923 I just sent you a mail.

@princeharbinger

2 жыл бұрын

What do you mean by the glass is not really fixable? Is the front element cemented? My copy has fungus on top of the second bulb shaped element. I had sent it in to a repairman. He only replaced the grease and fixed the stuck aperture blades. I was charged $250.00. Luckily I inspected it before I paid and left the shop. I showed his manager and got the price reduced to $170.00. I'm still not happy about it though. As I'm sure that fungus is having a impact on the acuity.

@FrankyFeedler

2 жыл бұрын

@@princeharbinger What I meant was, glass itself cannot be repaired or fixed. It can only be replaced. You can only clean it, or even fix cementing issues (with an oven, or with chemical process). If you are sure the fungus is on a surface of a lens, it is probably fungus or dirt and can be cleaned. Don't wait too long, since fungus always damages (eats) the glass. The more time, the deeper the damage. If it's between cemented elements, it is not fungus, it is separation of the cementing. Depending on the adhesive used, it can be treated.

Just discovered the “David Attenborough” of vintage cam/lens reviews! Really enjoying working through your content. Learning a lot. Thank you

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Many thanks, glad you're enjoying the channel!

The CZJ Flektogon 20mm/f4 is a legendary lens. Either the Zebra or the late MC models are some of the finest pieces of glass you can find. Even when the prices of film equipment hit rock bottom at around 2011-12, these were at least 120 euros for a decent example. I never got to buy one, since all the examples that popped up were bought in a couple of days after their ads were posted. And I never got a better body for M42 than the Zenit 12XP that's been in the family since 1986. But no lament for that, I scored a 24mm Zuiko for $65 attached to an OM-PC (shipped and taxed) more than wide enough for my needs.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

That 24mm Zuiko is a very nice lens - enjoy!

In my experience most aperture problems with CZJ Exakta lenses in this "zebra"-look are with the "outrigger" assembly that has the stop-down-button and are easy to fix as they dont come from stuck aperture blades but dirt in the actuation mechanism. As the dirt of decades gets into the button mechanism it jams. To fix this, unscrew the back of the outrigger and clean the parts inside. A bit of lube on the larger sliding surfaces and the aperture works like new. Apart from that, use it as is. Mine had haze behind the front element but cleaned up nicely. The flare and light-bleed are similar to yours. This lens has many nice properties (such as preserving straight lines) but it does not react well to unfavorable lighting conditions at all. For such cases, I can recommend the Pentax-M 20mm f4. However it is more expensive and will leave no straight line unbent ;)

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I need to come back to that poor old Flek - I'll open up the back, as you suggest, and see if we can get any further! Thanks for the tip.

@MrJoghurtbecher

2 жыл бұрын

Just the back of the outrigger. No need to take off the mount for what I meant. In general, those zebra lenses are relatively easy to service but I have an m42 version of that lens that had its aperture linkage damaged by some enterprising hobby repair men before me. Don't force anything and you should be okay.

All the CZJ lenses I had suffer from this stuck aperture issue. Usually the reason for that is some oil on the blades. If you want to do a proper CLA, you must take the lens apart and so the aperture. Clean the blades and all the parts inside that does not nead lubrication from the oil with some alcohol. Regrease the focusing mechanism, clean the glasses if necessary and reassemble. I think this is the only proper way to make the lens work for another 50 years, but it worth the effort. At the end, you'll have a well working lens with smooth focusing and dry aperture. There are some how to tutorials on the internet.

Hi Nigel, many thanks for your new video! This is a really amazing lens! Another very nice (and small) lens is the AI-S Nikkor 3.5/20mm. Very small for the pocket and very well crafted like many AI-S Nikkor. Best wishes, Magnetron

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the tip Mr Magnetron, I hope all's well with you!

@Magnetron692

2 жыл бұрын

@@zenography7923 Hello Nigel, thank you, I'm fine. Very happy with my Nikon Z6 and the vintage lenses

@Magnetron692

2 жыл бұрын

By the way, if you come across a Canon EOS 1 (first generation, thus more affordable), get yourself one, you'll be very pleased. I purchased one and I'm very pleased. As you know, via adapter, you can use a lot of vintage lenses from other brands as well!

Great episode again, thank you! You obviously like this lens a lot, it's in right hands, keep it, of course! I know you like shooting wide open, so the apperture problem doesn't matter too much. But did you try it on the Fuji to see how it behaves on a crop sensor? I'm allready looking forward to the Exakta/Exa/Praktica episodes!

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I haven't tried it on the Fuji as I don't have the adaptor - it would be interesting to try though as it would behave as a 30mm! Thanks for watching!

I have the Rokinon 20mm1.8 I bought used a good low light and street photography lens. I like the 20mm length wide without the distortion of a fisheye lens

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

That sounds like a nice little lens!

Usually when aperture mechanism like this jams, the reason is the old glue-like grease on the blades. These mechanisms are very weak and just a little bit of thick lube makes them jam. And in your case there might be some fungus between them. Most probably, unless you clean the blades, it will be stuck.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

There's a little more servicing to do on this lens, for sure!

i look forward to the report about the repair to this lens. I may pick one with light fungus on the inside of the front element and as well with M42 mount. Can you recommend any off the shelf retail M42 to M43 adaptors that will allow aperture operation without modifying the lens?

Many thanks for your great efforts and generous sharing of your experience and knowledge. I determined to get a good copy of this lens，while noticing the price went up quickly. I encounter a good copy of 25mm f4 and wonder whether I should still wait for 20mm f4. Any pro-and-cone comparisons between these two versions? Thanks.

I have a mint in case Zebra version of this. I haven't really used it much. I bought it many years ago but test shots show how good it is at close subjects with amazing bokeh. Mine has the aperture problem. Only sometimes the aperture closes down. I've had a look into this problem and I'll be trying to fix it. Getting at the aperture mechanism is not hard. It seems that the culprit may be the spring. It's a common issue with this lens for some reason. I prefer this to the 35mm Flektogon. It's much more unusual. This is one of those lenses that excels at black and white.

My new fave wide angle - even for f/4 the bokeh is incredible - currently saving my pennies for the 80mm Pancolar though first

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

The 80mm Pancolar is an incredible lens - you'll love it!

@klauspetermann2373

2 жыл бұрын

@@zenography7923 But it is very rare. I see it on german photografy markets only one time! In the GDR they sold only for few proffesionels and the Stasi. First Stasi Lens....300 4.0 and 500 5.6

@klauspetermann2373

2 жыл бұрын

The flektogon 20 4,0 20,2,8 and the P6 50 4,0 have a very very big frontlens like no other competitor.

Thank you very much for this inspiring video. I have a question: I also have a Flektogon 4/20 with M42-mount and would like to test it with a mechanical analogue SLR camera without TLR light-metering. I use an external Gossen lightmeter instead. When you shoot with this very complexe lense, will it be necessary to adjust the exposure time as it is often necessary when using tele or macro lenses with a large focal length, or can I trust my lightmeter and set the exposure time as I would do using a 50mm standard lense? I ask because your impressive pictures show that you obviously chose the right exposure time. -- Thank you very much in advance und best regards from Berlin, Heiko

I would be tempted to let it be and use it as it is- after all a 20mm with a constant F4 is a nice lens to have. But then I suspect the curiosity would eventually get me and I would need to know what the issue is. I certainly wouldn't sell it unless I was guaranteed a replacement with less issues. But that's me. I am saving for a new camera right now but this lens has just gone on the list of future wants.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the suggestion - I'll keep hold of this one and either repair or use as is!

Nice, so it became a good sunday after all :)

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I'm very glad to hear it, thanks!

What a timely video! I had actually bought this lens last year when the pandemic had just about started. I only got to use it a handful of times over the last year, and I'm just starting to assess it to see where and if it will fit into my bag, especially for an upcoming trip to see if I should bring it. So far I had noticed as you mentioned the tendency for the light to bleed over into the shadows, much more in my case I feel. My lens copy is good for the most part, the only weird thing is there seems to be some thin silicone under the front element along the edges. I don't know what or why this is there and if this is the cause of my more seemingly severe light/shadow bleed. I have an m42 mount version and I can't seem to figure out how to remove the front element to examine the silicone. Any advice or thoughts would be appreciated. As is, the lens seems decent, but I can't help but feel if I could remove this silicone that may make it even better.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

The front element is easy to remove - remove the faceplate first (as in the video), then use a lens spanner to undo the front element retaining ring. The front element should then come out easily.

Another weird old lens.. I don't have any expectations when i put my old lenses to my sony a7ii. But when their produce image beyond ur expectation.. Oh boi, you gonna love em. Thanks for sharing this beautiful looking glass to us. Not many of us got any chance to even see it in our lifetime.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

I have a Pantar 30mm f/4 for Contaflex cameras which I'm sure isn't up to the same specs, but my only Zeiss lens atm.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Any Zeiss lens is a thing of beauty - enjoy!

Love that lens too, talking about Zeiss what about there 35 mm mechanical cameras?

I happened to get a Flek 20 f2.8 for just 260€ and I love it. It's a great lens for many purposes and performes well on film and digital camera. But in many situations I use it with f4 or higher, so I guess the cheaper Flek 20 f4 would suffice most people.

I have tried my own repairs too , get another lens like it and use this lens as learning tool.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Good advice, thanks!

Thank you for your video, I recently purchased the Vivitar 20mm f3.8, for my Olympus OM-D E-M1 ii-- I'm trying to find the appropriate mount adapter. If anyone can help with suggestions that will be great. The product number on this glass begins with 2200. Thank you!

F4 aperture is not very interesting but something around 2.8 would be a better choice. Cleaning fungus and lubricating the aperture was much helpful.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks!

Ok I’m confused… when adapted to a mirrorless camera like E-mount how does the aperture setting remain at the desired setting? Is it necessary to “lock” it at (say) f5.6 using the lever/knob assembly? Apologies for my ignorance I have never used a lens with this kind of mechanism.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

The adaptor permits manual use of the aperture control, across the full range of settings.

5:49 another good way of removing the front retaining rings with writing on them is a glass plus a theraband/generic fitness rubber band. They provide the friction, and you can usually find matching diameters for just about any lens among your drinking, preserve and shot glasses. 15:09 and if you ever encounter stuck screws, you can do the following things: Apply a light/penetrating oil and wait for a few hours, apply percussive maintenance with a hammer (only very light blows, obviously), or try and scratch off remains of glue that are sometimes used to fix screws in place. Be very careful around brass screws, since they are very soft. If they are already mangled, you can somewhat recreate a slot for a screwdriver by scratching it in.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Many thanks for the tips, very useful!

Great show!! Would love to know how you think the Flek stacks up against the Pentax 20mm f/4 and the Vivitar 19mm f/3.8. . . .. Oh, I would probably keep an eye out for better copy and then let go of that one when and if you get it. Otherwise, just enjoy it's character 😉

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I think that's what I'll do, thanks!

Let me know of you managed to fix this "fast aperture push button" mechanism. If not, I will post a short explanatory video on that.

Very nice. Well done. I'ven't a 20mm, but a Sigma XQ filtermatic 18mm f2.8 M42 mount which is very rare to find. Works veru great. Your lens looks to me with a exakta mount?

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Some of the Sigma lenses are very nice indeed - and yes, this is an exacta mount version - they tend to be a little cheaper than other versions, but sshh, don't tell anyone!

Curious to see what improvement you might get putting a quality skylight filter on it.

@cpmaverick

2 жыл бұрын

What should that do? I was under the impression that digital cameras didn't benefit much from that filter. But I'm only novice...

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

That might be interesting - thanks for the suggestion, I'll give it a go.

How does this compare with the olympus OM 21mm 3.5? i would be interested to see the OM 24mm 2.8, OM 21mm 3.5 and this lens compared ... i have the OM1 so I am considering the OM 24mm for my sony camera so i can also use it for my film camera.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I'd love to try those lenses, but they haven't come my way just yet I'm afraid!

Just wondering if you have tried the Olympus Zuiko OM 21mm 3.5?

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Unfortunately not though I'd very much like to!

I got the Zeiss planar 18mm F3.5 but only test it on a Nikon D300 (Dx). After that camera broke down I got a 2nd hand Nikon D700 but I have not tested it on it yet,

@zenography7923

Жыл бұрын

Sounds like it's time to give it a spin!

@thomaseriksson6256

Жыл бұрын

@@zenography7923 Got the D800E this summer but I have not had time to take photographs yet, bin shooting with Fuji X-T1 and 55-200mmF3.5-5.6. I put an AFS 60mmF2.8 G macro on the D800E. I will first test the camera with that lens before switching to 18mm. I put the AFS 28mmF1.4 E on the D700. I’m not please with manual focus when trying the Zeiss 50mmF1.4 on it but that lens have C A at F1.4.

see ,your lens has an "exa" nmount,at least it seems exactly like mine-having the mentioned mount...Do you use it on an Exa camera or were able to adapt it to something else?

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I've only used it on my Sony A7 so far, though I'm going to shoot it on a Exa camera soon - stay tuned!

I think you should go for a mint copy. That beautiful optical piece of engineering deserves it. By the way, what is that you used to open the faceplate? Thanks!

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

It's a glass mug with blu tak on the rim, to give a bit of grip!

I have 25mm f4 great lens

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

It certainly is!

If there is another lens beyond repair, I think the ethics of using that as a donor are acceptable. One good example, is better than two bad. I would just then keep some paper work, to record the serial numbers and parts used. As experienced as you are with vintage lenses, it must have been exciting to find one you didn’t know existed!

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Indeed it was - a very nice one too!

The pancolar 50 1.8 tested sharper than the CY Planar 50 1.7 Red T ?

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

When I tested it against a Zeiss 50mm f1.7 yes, the pancolar came out on top!

A lovely lens indeed, Nigel. Shame that the dreaded fungus has etched its was through the coating. Is it worthwhile talking to some independent opticians to see if the labs they use can strip off the old coating and re-apply a new one. I know that they offer anti reflection spectacle lenses, so they must have some sort of electron beam deposition machinery at their disposal. Even if you can only get the old coating removed it may be enough to reduce the light scatter? Whatever you decide to do, it's still a great lens. George

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

That's a really good idea George, thanks I'll try it! Great suggestion!

Hi, what adapter do you use for sony and this zeiss lens?

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

This lens has an Exacta mount, so I used an Exacta to Sony e mount adaptor - readily available on ebay or similar.

@gabrysgabriukas

2 жыл бұрын

@@zenography7923 thank you

I had my mind made up to get the 35mm f2.4 Flecktogon, but after watching this video, I'm not so sure. I'm curious to hear your opinion on how they compare in terms of sharpness, contrast, color rendition, and background blur (I am really attracted to the short minimum focusing distance on both). I plan to use the lens primarily for landscape photography, on an APS-C camera.

@cdavey061

2 жыл бұрын

great for macro photography... its just over 50mm on aps-c 1.5x

@miam1074

2 жыл бұрын

they are both amazing. also depends on what you want to use it for, what kind of photography do you do. I would think that the 35mm is more versatile, and the rendering of that lens is just incredible.

@cdavey061

2 жыл бұрын

a focal length reducer will retain the 35mm focal length on a crop sensor NIigel has done a video on these reducers and adapters that may help you...

@mattcarlson1052

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, all!

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Slightly tricky to advise as my Flek 35 is in rather better condition than my 20. I would expect a really good 20 to have similar optical characteristics but don't know for sure. My 35 is an extraordinary lens though, with rather smoother background blur for most of the time. To get the most from both of these on aps-c I'd use a focal reducer, and given the choice I'd go for the 35.

what is the coating/ in the coating?

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Coatings are layers added to lens surfaces since around 1945 or so - they cut down on reflection and aid light transmission through the glass. They are composed of a wide range of elements, the recipe for which varies from lens to lens.

Do you repair cameras..? My Iskra 6x6 needs some adjustments.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I'm not really a camera repairer as such, more of a cautious tinkerer! Hence my oft repeated advice of minimal dismantling. There are repairers who can help, depending on where you are. Are you in the UK?

@pefawa

2 жыл бұрын

@@zenography7923 I live in the USA. I sent the came to Oleg, I'm sure you've heard of him. He hasn't received it yet. I've heard nothing but good things about him and his work. I really enjoy your channel, it's informative and you're just nice to listen to. After watching a few of your videos and doing some research of my own I decided to purchase a Soviet made Zorki 3, the one with the slow speed dial on the front. It's coming through FedEx and has been CLA'd and is guaranteed to work. I'm looking forward to receiving it. ! It's a beautiful camera and I'm certain that once I learn how to use it that it will produce some very nice photos.

I bought a Ukraine copy Mir-20n(N for Nikon), it really disappointed me(unknown light leakage from bottom ). But I heard a rumor that a KMZ built mir-20m is equal to its Zeiss brother.

I saw the feed for this vid come in, it read, "this lens you cant afford" and i thought, hey, thats most lens. i cant afford most lens. but glad i read it wrong🤣

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Me too, and thanks for watching!

You may already know this, but it's unclear from your video, in re: making the lens diaphragm work automatically. Push in the shutter button on the offset arm with your thumb. Using the knurled (ridged) button, rotate it a quarter turn clockwise. This will make the diaphragm close only when pressing on the shutter release. Rotate it anti-clockwise to enable its use in stop-down for metering or other purposes.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I did know that, but thanks anyway! I think this one's going to need a serious clean and lubrication!

Arghh, I have been thinking about that for the past couple of weeks, but I just passed 40 lenses 😫

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Resist, resist, resist - oh alright then!

I had the pre set version of the 20mm f4 Flektogon lens and used it on my Pentax Spotmatic until the aperture blades fell apart. The focus was really stiff. The Flektogon was crude mechanically and optically not that sharp. I had a 100 mm 2.8 pentacon lens which was really great optically, but again it fell apart in the aperture blade department, which rendered it unusable. Shame.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

The East German lenses do often suffer with sticky blades - perhaps the original lubrication wasn't quite up to the job? They're worth getting serviced in my opinion though, as they really are remarkable optics!

I like this lens very much, but I think it’s dangerous to try cleaning the aperture blades diy. I recommend selling it and get a better one. Incidentally, I’ve got a Canon FD 20-35 3.5 L lens that’s fantastic. It’s an old school lens that gives marvelous colors and tack sharp images. And the wide angle range gives me a great street lens as well as for architecture.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

That sounds like a really nice lens - enjoy!

I love this KZread Channel and have purchased a few lenses on the advice given here. BUT I have to ask even at the risk of being labelled Stupid ... Why Zenography?

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

It's because I'm interested in Zen bhuddism - photography is a good way to be 'in the moment'!

aperture is easy to fix, sticky and old grease and a weak spring cause the issue

Is this digital? What body do you put it on?

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I shot this lens on my Sony A7 mk1, although you can adapt it to any digital mirrorless camera - or of course, you can shoot it on film!

Hello Whats your thoughts on this lens please? It a good price - FLEKTOGON 4/20 Carl Zeiss Jena M42 ∢ ver 3% zebra F/4.0 20mm Wide Angle -

@zenography7923

Жыл бұрын

A very nice lens indeed - if you can afford it, I'd say buy it!

@creepyoldhouseexplorersclub

Жыл бұрын

@@zenography7923 i pulled the trigger on it 300 usd. It has a original leather case, the lens is mint - come in a m42 mount - piece of cake to adapt to the Sony A7riii - i feel lucky to be the new owner! Cheers!

Keep as is

Prices have shot up some 10 months ago, eh?... Can't find the f4 for less than $280. Don't even mention the 2.8!

That light bleed is not unlike the 'glow' one gets from uncoated lenses.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Indeed - not altogether unpleasant!

The prices at which this lens is offered are obviously addressed at crazy people. I mainly use Nikon and I do not see any particular reason to buy this lens, when it is possible to buy a used Nikkor AF-S 20mm f/1.8 G for the same price (I own this lens) or the new Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S (more expensive, but worth every penny). Another more interesting alternative would be the Sigma ART 20mm f/1.4 The same applies to other brands such as Canon, Fuji, Sony, etc. Forgert about the Flektogon 20mm!!!

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Good to know of alternatives, should this one not suit!

great I wanted one of these and now you've told everyone they'll go up in price :(

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Oh, I do hope not!

Sadly now this is a lens that you just can't afford! Prices have gone a bit bonkers, £250 seems to be the starting price on most listings, going up to double that again. The F2.8 versions are being listed for between £350 and close to a grand.

@zenography7923

Жыл бұрын

Wow, I'm not sure it's that good a lens! As always though, never pay buy it now prices as they're almost always inflated, recently enormously so!

American dollars, the lens costs $399.99 on ebay plus tax and shipping. A Carl Zeiss lens is the Bentley or Lamborghini of

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Gosh, that does seem a bit steep. Maybe this is a rare lens in the US?

I don't really see how it's sharp

Monsieur bonjour Vous êtes un spécialiste de l'utilisation des objectifs vintages ,j'ai la possibilité d'acheter un Sony A7R mk1 pour 500 euros en parfait état .Cet appareil est il ,selon vous une bonne opportunité pour cet utilisation . Translation attempt A colleague cell a Sony A7R in perfect condition for 500 euros.Do you think that is a good opportunity for using vintage lenses on full frame.Thank in advance for your advices.Bonne journée. Cordialement

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

I think the a7r would be an excellent choice, and 500 euros is a good price too. I think you should buy it!

@rodolphenavarro4253

2 жыл бұрын

Merci bonne journée Tks have a good day

This lens is UPWARDS of $300 CAD! so much for budget.....

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Prices do seem to vary a lot with location unfortunately, here in the UK they seem to be somewhat cheaper, at least for this lens. As always with vintage lenses though, patience is the key - in my experience there are still bargains to be had if you look regularly. Thanks for looking in!

Y'all are driving up the price of old lenses, ffs.

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Oh gosh, I hope not!

I know the "Digital Image Capture" craze has been with us for the last 15 years or so....... BUT; I'm always hearing from "Professional" image snappers about how they LOST EVERY IMAGE on their SD cards! Guess when you're not educated as to exactly how these "Digital Images" are stored that's easy to do! One guy left his camera on an office counter right next to a working microwave! And then was mystified when his data was simply GONE! And the cpu in his 6,000 dollar "camera" was fried! 😉 I know! I should not be laughing so hard, but geeze! Any strong EM field is to be avoided with this equipment. Or any bit of gear using sensitive electronics. Oh well. As long as "the kids" keep blundering, I'll just keep laughing! ☺

@zenography7923

2 жыл бұрын

Strong EM fields should be avoided with digital gear for sure - but having said that, I've found mine to be pretty reliable!

@muziqfreek

2 жыл бұрын

Lies