Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8
Carl Zeiss Jena
Vintage35mm
Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8: 4 elements in 3 groups, 5 aperture blades, 0.5m minimum focus, 49mm filter thread.
- Focal length
- 50mm
- Max aperture
- f/2.8
- Mount
- M42 Screw
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 4 / 3
Known for
- Landscape
- Street photography
- General photography
- Travel
Considerations
- f/2.8 limits low-light use
- 49mm 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 resistance3, level 3 of 5
CA control4, level 4 of 5
Vignetting control4, level 4 of 5
Distortion control5, level 5 of 5
Bokeh: Smooth for 4-element design
Rendering: Sharp, clinical, classic Tessar
Colour: Neutral to warm
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Focus ring wear
- Aperture blade oil
- Coating wear
Buying guide
Check the aperture operates cleanly and inspect the glass.
Specifications
| Mount | M42 Screw |
| Focal Length | 50mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 5 |
| Min Focus | 0.5m |
| Filter Size | 49mm |
Optical design
| Formula | Tessar |
| Elements | 4 |
| Groups | 3 |
| Coating | Single Coated |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £30 - £70
- Mint
- ~£100
Indicative, no dated source.