Jenazoom lenses? | Shutterbug

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Submitted By: Bunyip

Joined: May 14 2007

Posts:

Jenazoom lenses?

Posted: August 3, 2008 - 8:19pm

Has anyone heard of Carl Zeiss MC Macro Jena zoom lenses?

I have just purchase one (second-hand) in an Olympus OM mount, single-touch style, 28-200mm f/3.8-5.6.

It appears to be very well made (in Japan, under licence from Carl Zeiss), and the anti-reflection coatings (bloom) on both front and rear elements are extremely effective. Looking through the viewfinder, the image appears to be very clear and bright.

I have, as yet, to put a film past it (one ready to go).

I wondered if anyone could direct me to a site giving some details about these lenses and their history, etc.

Thanks.

Submitted By: Bunyip

Joined: May 14 2007

Posts:

Re: Jenazoom lenses: no responses?

Posted: August 24, 2008 - 6:52pm

Ah well, still no replies.

I have put two films past this lens now, with rather mixed results.

It does give good colour rendition, especially at the short end.

The close focusing (so called Macro) function is effective, focusing around a very comfortable 1 to 1.5m, filling the frame and resulting in -to my eye- an excellent, smooth bokeh. So far, the long end seems a bit soft, but that may just be my ineptitude at focusing. Time will tell.

I am not used to one touch zooms, but I'm finding it fast and convenient to use. Of course, zoom creep is an issue.

All in all, I'm happy enough with it: especially for the price!

Submitted By: Bunyip

Joined: May 14 2007

Posts:

Re: Jenazoom lenses: update

Posted: August 24, 2008 - 10:00pm

Since my last post, I have received yet another set of prints: close focus sharpness and colour to die for! Very satisfied now.

Should you see a Jenazoom at a reasonable price, my advice is to go for it: you won't regret it!

But, I guess I'm just talking to myself here?

Submitted By: Bunyip

Joined: May 14 2007

Posts:

Re: Jenazoom lenses: very satisfied!

Posted: September 3, 2008 - 12:35am

Have some more prints back, using this lens (Fuji Superia 100 ISO, 24x)

Beautiful colour rendition, bokeh to die for (using "Macro"). Excellent sharpness.

It took a (very) little getting used to the "one touch" design, but -once used to it- it is very convenient to use.

I thoroughly recommend this lens.