Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Jena Pancolar 55mm f/1.4
Carl Zeiss Jena · 1967-1971
Rare35mm
Fast Pancolar for M42 made in small numbers; four elements use thoriated SSK11 glass. Carl Zeiss Jena Pancolar 55mm f/1.4: 7 elements in 5 groups, 8 aperture blades, 0.39m minimum focus, 58mm filter thread, 398g.
- Focal length
- 55mm
- Max aperture
- f/1.4
- Mount
- M42 Screw
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 7 / 5
Known for
- Portraits
- Low light
- Available light photography
Considerations
- Thoriated glass tends to yellow
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)3, level 3 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 control4, level 4 of 5
Bokeh: Creamy, with subtle character
Rendering: Dreamy wide open, sharp stopped down
Colour: Rich Zeiss signature
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Aperture blade oil
- Focus ring stiffness
- Yellowed (thoriated) glass
Buying guide
Check for yellowing and optical centering. Test wide open and stopped down.
Specifications
| Mount | M42 Screw |
| Focal Length | 55mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.4 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 8 |
| Min Focus | 0.39m |
| Filter Size | 58mm |
| Weight | 398g |
Optical design
| Formula | Double Gauss |
| Elements | 7 |
| Groups | 5 |
| Coating | Single Coated |
| Special | Thoriated SSK11 glass in four elements (radioactive, yellows) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £200 - £400
- Mint
- ~£550
Indicative, no dated source.