Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Distagon 40mm f/4 C
Carl Zeiss
Discontinuedmedium-format
Carl Zeiss Distagon 40mm f/4 C: 10 elements in 9 groups, 0.5m minimum focus, Hasselblad series 104 bayonet filters, 1375g.
- Focal length
- 40mm
- Max aperture
- f/4
- Mount
- Hasselblad V
- Format
- medium-format
- Elements / groups
- 10 / 9
Known for
- Landscapes
- Architecture
Considerations
- No floating lens element (added in the CF FLE)
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 control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control4, level 4 of 5
Bokeh: Ultra-wide
Rendering: Vintage character
Colour: Period warmth
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Leaf shutter wear or timing drift
- Aperture and helicoid stiffness
- Haze or fungus in elements
Buying guide
Test the leaf shutter at all speeds and listen for hesitation. Check the glass for haze or fungus and the focusing for smoothness.
Specifications
| Mount | Hasselblad V |
| Focal Length | 40mm |
| Max Aperture | f/4 |
| Min Aperture | f/32 |
| Min Focus | 0.5m |
| Filter Size | 104mm |
| Weight | 1375g |
Optical design
| Formula | Distagon |
| Elements | 10 |
| Groups | 9 |
Pricing
- Typical used price (US market)
- $500 - $800
- Mint
- ~$950
Indicative, no dated source.