Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Jena MC Flektogon 20mm f/2.8
Carl Zeiss Jena · 1979-1990
Vintage35mm
Wide-angle Flektogon focusing to 0.19m. Carl Zeiss Jena MC Flektogon 20mm f/2.8: 9 elements in 8 groups, 6 aperture blades, 0.19m minimum focus, 67mm filter thread, 315g.
- Focal length
- 20mm
- Max aperture
- f/2.8
- Mount
- M42 Screw
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 9 / 8
Known for
- Architecture
- Landscape
- Interiors
- Creative perspectives
Considerations
- 67mm filter thread
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)4, level 4 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)5, level 5 of 5
Contrast4, level 4 of 5
Flare resistance4, level 4 of 5
CA control3, level 3 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control3, level 3 of 5
Bokeh: Pleasant for ultra-wide
Rendering: Dynamic with low distortion for 20mm
Colour: Rich, saturated
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
Flektogon 4/20 (predecessor)
1963-1976
f/4, zebra mount; separate earlier design
Different lens, listed for context
f/2.8 MC (late)
1976-1991
f/2.8, black body, red MC
Faster, improved coating
Common issues
- Focus ring grease
- Front filter thread damage
- Coating wear
Buying guide
Check the corners stopped down and the focus and aperture operation.
Specifications
| Mount | M42 Screw |
| Focal Length | 20mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 6 |
| Min Focus | 0.19m |
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| Weight | 315g |
Optical design
| Formula | Retrofocus |
| Elements | 9 |
| Groups | 8 |
| Coating | Multi-Coated |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £180 - £320
- Mint
- ~£400
Indicative, no dated source.