Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Jena Biotar 58mm f/2
Carl Zeiss Jena · 1949-1961
Carl Zeiss Jena Biotar 58mm f/2: 6 elements in 4 groups, 10 aperture blades, 0.5m minimum focus, 49mm filter thread, 210g.
- Focal length
- 58mm
- Max aperture
- f/2
- Mount
- M42 Screw
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 6 / 4
Known for
- Portraits with character
- Creative photography
- Vintage aesthetic
- Video
Considerations
- 49mm filter thread
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Bokeh: Famous swirly bokeh effect
Rendering: Dreamy, vintage, distinctive
Colour: Warm, single-coated character
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
Pre-war (Exakta mount)
1936-1945
Brass or chrome mount, focal length in cm, mostly uncoated (some coated later)
Not made in M42 mount
Post-war (black)
1949-1961
Coated; preset (10 or 12 blades, some 17) or semi-automatic (10 blades) diaphragm
More common, still excellent
Many examples use a preset diaphragm.
Common issues
- Sticky preset aperture
- Focus ring wear
- Coating deterioration
Buying guide
Test the aperture mechanism carefully; many use a preset diaphragm. Check for fungus and haze.
Specifications
| Mount | M42 Screw |
| Focal Length | 58mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Min Aperture | f/16 |
| Aperture Blades | 10 |
| Min Focus | 0.5m |
| Filter Size | 49mm |
| Weight | 202g |
Optical design
| Formula | Double Gauss |
| Elements | 6 |
| Groups | 4 |
| Coating | Single Coated |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £80 - £180
- Mint
- ~£300
Indicative, no dated source.