Zeiss 50mm f/2 ZF Macro Lens Reviews & Specifications

The Zeiss 50mm f/2 ZF Makro-Planar T* Manual Focus Lens is a fast 50mm macro lens that provides up to half life-size images. Living up to its reputation, this Zeiss macro lens offers exceptional high resolution and image quality over the entire focusing range, from infinity to close-focus. It is the ideal close-up lens for the exacting 35mm SLR photographer who doesn't mind using a manual focus lens.

• Durable all-metal lens barrel and precision mechanics

• Precise mechanism enables exact manual focusing

• Carl Zeiss T* lens coating

• Special attention is paid to guarantee absolute color matching

• Nikon F Mount Manual Focus Lens

• Can Only Be Used in Manual Exposure Mode on Digital Nikon SLRS

• Can be Used with Aperture Priority or Manual Exposure Mode on Nikon Film SLRS

• Lens are AI-S style mount - no electronics

Filter Size: 67mm

f/Stop Range: 2-22

Minimum Focus Distance: 6.4" (0.24 m)

Magnification: 1:2

Angle of View: 46°

Groups/Elements: 6/8

Length: 2.5" (65mm)

Maximum Diameter: 2.8" (72mm)

Weight: 1.1 lb (530 g)

• Front & Rear Lens Caps

• Metal Lens Hood

• 2-Year Warranty

One of the Best 50mm Lenses Currently Available, December 22, 2007

By John Kwok (New York, NY USA)

I had the pleasure last month of borrowing this fine, heavy lens from the Zeiss USA office. Its superb performance exceeded my expectations. I was especially impressed with its high contrast, high resolution images, even wide open at f2 at its minimum focusing distance (approximately two feet) using ISO 400 black and white film. Optically I judge it superior to any of the Leica 50mm f2 Summicron-M lenses I have used, ranging from my late 1960s vintage black Wetlzar-made lens to more recent ones I have tried. This splendid lens is the best 50mm lens for a 35mm rangefinder camera that's currently available at a reasonable price (Of course I am omitting the fabulous, but incredibly, expensive 50mm f1.4 Summilux-M ASPH lens.). Optically it is based on the venerable 6 lens element four group design associated with other recent superb Zeiss Planar lenses such as the Contax G-series 45mm f2 Planar and the Contax SLR 50mm f1.4 Planar; as a superb performer in its own right, this 50mm Planar lens is as splendid a lens as its immediate illustrious predecessors. Those seeking a used 50mm Summicron lens for their M-mount rangefinder camera kit should take a close, hard look at this 50mm Planar lens.