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jimoir · Joined: 26 Nov 2001 Posts: 3 Location: Canada

I have a 105 and a 65, both Scneider but I was wondering what longer lenses are out there that work well for the Century. What would be a good portrait lense? What is the maximum length (specific brands) that would work on the Century? I appreciate any help in this area!!

[ This Message was edited by: jimoir on 2001-11-26 10:30 ]

Henry · Posted: Mon Nov 26, 2001 6:43 pm Post subject:

Probably the longest lens (non-telephoto) that is usable on the Century is the 203mm Optar (or similar); I say this because with that focal length the bellows is fully extended (c. eight inches) at infinity. There are, however, Tele-Optar lenses (true telephotos) such as the 10" (i.e., 250mm) which should also work, as infinity focus is shorter than actual focal length--I believe the 10" Tele-Optar would also require a bellows draw of about eight inches. Perhaps someone who has experience with the Tele lenses can be more helpful on this point. As to a portrait lens, I'm guessing that maybe a 135mm would work; it's a very common lens often used as a slightly wide "normal" in 4x5 but would bring you closer to the subject in 2x3.

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

I agree with Henry, but would add that a 203 ektar would focus at infinity, but since you need MORE bellows to get CLOSER. It won't focus much closer than 20 feet if that. They made an 8" tele-optar that was designed for the camera. The 10" tele is also listed as being usable with this camera in Graphic Graflex Photography.

For portraits I'd look for a 135 Ektar,Optar. This is a tessar formula and will give a sharp "wiry" look (unless they cleaned it with steel wool) If you want a softer look, unscrew the front cell 1/4 to 1/2 turn.

Dan Fromm · Joined: 14 May 2001 Posts: 2146 Location: New Jersey

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

>Another restriction that has nothing to do with focal length, modern WA lenses with big rear elements can't be used on 2x3 Graphics because of the small size of the front standard.

However, the way around that is to unscrew the rear element and reinstall it from the rear. That's what I did with my 80mm Planar. So the real determinative is the diameter of the opening needed to mount the shutter.

78ltd · Joined: 04 Sep 2005 Posts: 62 Location: Texas

I have 211mm of extension on my late (1968) Century and regularly use a 203mm F/7.7 Ektar. It uses 201mm of extension. These measurements are from the back of the lens board to the film plane. I've never felt the need to focus any closer than those 10mm of travel I have left.