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Lens · prime

Carl Zeiss Sonnar 150mm f/4 C

Carl Zeiss · 1957-1982

Discontinuedmedium-format

Carl Zeiss Sonnar 150mm f/4 C: 5 elements in 3 groups, 1.4m minimum focus, Hasselblad series 50 bayonet filters, 710g.

Focal length
150mm
Max aperture
f/4
Mount
Hasselblad V
Format
medium-format
Elements / groups
5 / 3

Known for

  • Portraits
  • Fashion

Considerations

  • Earlier (C) leaf shutter

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 control5, level 5 of 5
Distortion control5, level 5 of 5

Bokeh: Classic Sonnar

Rendering: Vintage portrait character

Colour: Warmer than CF

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

MountHasselblad V
Focal Length150mm
Max Aperturef/4
Min Aperturef/32
Min Focus1.4m
Filter Size50mm
Weight710g

Optical design

FormulaSonnar
Elements5
Groups3

Pricing

Typical used price (US market)
$200 - $400
Mint
~$500

Indicative, no dated source.