Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Distagon 50mm f/4 C
Carl Zeiss · until 1982
Discontinuedmedium-format
Carl Zeiss Distagon 50mm f/4 C: 7 elements in 7 groups, 0.5m minimum focus, Hasselblad series 63 bayonet filters, 885g.
- Focal length
- 50mm
- Max aperture
- f/4
- Mount
- Hasselblad V
- Format
- medium-format
- Elements / groups
- 7 / 7
Known for
- Landscapes
- Architecture
- Documentary
Considerations
- Earlier design than the CF
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: Vintage character
Rendering: Classic wide angle
Colour: Period correct
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 | 50mm |
| Max Aperture | f/4 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Min Focus | 0.5m |
| Filter Size | 63mm |
| Weight | 885g |
Optical design
| Formula | Distagon |
| Elements | 7 |
| Groups | 7 |
Pricing
- Typical used price (US market)
- $300 - $500
- Mint
- ~$600
Indicative, no dated source.