Lens · prime
Carl Zeiss Sonnar 250mm f/5.6 C
Carl Zeiss · 1957-1982
Discontinuedmedium-format
Carl Zeiss Sonnar 250mm f/5.6 C: 4 elements in 3 groups, 2.5m minimum focus, Hasselblad series 50 bayonet filters, 930g.
- Focal length
- 250mm
- Max aperture
- f/5.6
- Mount
- Hasselblad V
- Format
- medium-format
- Elements / groups
- 4 / 3
Known for
- Portraits
- Nature
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 resistance4, level 4 of 5
CA control3, level 3 of 5
Vignetting control4, level 4 of 5
Distortion control5, level 5 of 5
Bokeh: Classic telephoto
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 | 250mm |
| Max Aperture | f/5.6 |
| Min Aperture | f/45 |
| Min Focus | 2.5m |
| Filter Size | 50mm |
| Weight | 930g |
Optical design
| Formula | Sonnar |
| Elements | 4 |
| Groups | 3 |
Pricing
- Typical used price (US market)
- $200 - $400
- Mint
- ~$500
Indicative, no dated source.