primemedium-formatdiscontinued
Carl Zeiss Distagon 40mm f/4 CF FLE
Carl Zeiss · 1988-2013
The Distagon 40mm f/4 CF FLE is the ultra-wide option for Hasselblad, equivalent to roughly 24mm on 35mm format. The Floating Lens Element design maintains excellent image quality from infinity to close focus. A favorite for landscape and architectural photographers.
Known for
- Landscapes
- Architecture
- Interiors
- Astrophotography
Considerations
- Large and heavy
- Expensive filters (93mm)
- Some barrel distortion
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)4/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast5/5
Flare Resistance4/5
CA Control4/5
Vignetting Control3/5
Distortion Control4/5
Bokeh: Naturalistic
Rendering: Excellent corner sharpness for ultra-wide
Color: Classic Zeiss neutral
Common Issues
- FLE mechanism can wear
- Large front element vulnerable to damage
Buying Guide
Verify FLE mechanism works smoothly. Check for front element damage. Hood recommended.
Specifications
MountHasselblad V
Focal Length40mm
Max Aperturef/4
Min Aperturef/22
Aperture Blades5
Min Focus0.5m
Filter Size93mm
Weight970g
Optical Design
FormulaDistagon
Elements11
Groups9
CoatingZeiss T*
SpecialFloating lens element for close focus
Pricing
£800 - £1400
Typical used price
Mint: ~£1800
Sought after by landscape photographers
Last verified: Jan 2025Report an error