Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Jena MC Pancolar 80mm f/1.8
Carl Zeiss Jena · from 1977
Vintage35mm
Portrait-length Pancolar; Zeiss Ikon VEB article says about 11,000 were made for M42 and 4,700 for the Praktica bayonet. Carl Zeiss Jena MC Pancolar 80mm f/1.8: 6 elements in 5 groups, 6 aperture blades, 0.83m minimum focus, 58mm filter thread, 420g.
- Focal length
- 80mm
- Max aperture
- f/1.8
- Mount
- M42 Screw
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 6 / 5
Known for
- Portraits
- Fashion
- Headshots
- Events
Considerations
- Slightly shorter than the usual 85mm
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 control4, level 4 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control5, level 5 of 5
Bokeh: Beautiful, creamy transitions
Rendering: Classic Zeiss portrait look
Colour: Rich, saturated
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Focus ring stiffness
- Aperture blade oil
- Decentering
Buying guide
Check focus smoothness and aperture operation, and test corner sharpness for decentering.
Specifications
| Mount | M42 Screw |
| Focal Length | 80mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/16 |
| Aperture Blades | 6 |
| Min Focus | 0.83m |
| Filter Size | 58mm |
Optical design
| Formula | Double Gauss |
| Elements | 6 |
| Groups | 5 |
| Coating | Multi-Coated |
| Special | Lanthanum flint front element |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £150 - £280
- Mint
- ~£350
Indicative, no dated source.