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Carl Zeiss Jena Pancolar 55mm f/1.4
Carl Zeiss Jena · 1968-1978
Carl Zeiss Jena's fast standard lens. Less common than the f/1.8 Pancolar, this f/1.4 version offers extra speed with characteristic Zeiss rendering. Dreamy wide open, razor sharp stopped down.
Known for
- Portraits
- Low light
- Available light photography
Considerations
- Soft corners wide open
- Less common than f/1.8
- Higher prices
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)3/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast4/5
Flare Resistance4/5
CA Control3/5
Vignetting Control3/5
Distortion Control4/5
Bokeh: Creamy, with subtle character
Rendering: Dreamy wide open, sharp stopped down
Color: Rich Zeiss signature
Common Issues
- Aperture blade oil
- Focus ring stiffness
- Decentering
Buying Guide
Check optical centering carefully. Test wide open and stopped down. Expect to pay premium for this rare lens. Worth seeking for character.
Specifications
MountM42 Screw
Focal Length55mm
Max Aperturef/1.4
Min Aperturef/16
Aperture Blades6
Min Focus0.6m
Filter Size58mm
Weight340g
Optical Design
FormulaDouble Gauss
Elements7
Groups6
CoatingMulti-Coated
Pricing
£200 - £400
Typical used price
Mint: ~£550
Rare and collectible
Adapts To
Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon ZMicro Four Thirds
Compatible Cameras
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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error