Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Jena MC Flektogon 35mm f/2.4
Carl Zeiss Jena · 1976-1988
Retrofocus 35mm that focuses to 0.2m (1:2.4). Carl Zeiss Jena MC Flektogon 35mm f/2.4: 6 elements in 6 groups, 6 aperture blades, 0.19m minimum focus, 49mm filter thread, 240g.
- Focal length
- 35mm
- Max aperture
- f/2.4
- Mount
- M42 Screw
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 6 / 6
Known for
- Street photography
- Environmental portraits
- Close-up work
- All-around wide
Considerations
- Some barrel distortion
- Vintage sample variation
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Bokeh: Smooth with pleasant swirl
Rendering: Classic Zeiss 3D pop
Colour: Rich, saturated
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
Early series mount
1975-late 1970s
Black knurled mount with the older zebra-type aperture mechanism; 0.19 m close focus
Transitional mechanics
Standardised mount
late 1970s-1988
Black mount with standardised rear fittings; auto or electric versions
Most common
Common issues
- Sticky aperture
- Focus ring grease issues
- Decentered elements
Buying guide
Test focus smoothness and aperture operation. Check for decentered elements by examining corner sharpness. All production lenses are multi-coated; zebra examples were prototypes only.
Specifications
| Mount | M42 Screw |
| Focal Length | 35mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.4 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 6 |
| Min Focus | 0.2m |
| Filter Size | 49mm |
| Weight | 240g |
Optical design
| Formula | Retrofocus |
| Elements | 6 |
| Groups | 6 |
| Coating | Multi-Coated |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £100 - £200
- Mint
- ~£280
Indicative, no dated source.