Lens · zoom
Schneider Variogon 140-280mm f/5.6 CF
Schneider Kreuznach
Discontinuedmedium-format
The Schneider Variogon 140-280mm f/5.6 is described in its Schneider leaflet as the first zoom lens in series production for 6x6 cameras. It has a built-in between-lens shutter coupled to the camera, a macro setting, and was supplied for Hasselblad 500-series bodies and, in a modified version, the 2000 CF. Schneider made it, not Zeiss.
- Focal length
- 140-280mm
- Max aperture
- f/5.6
- Mount
- Hasselblad V
- Format
- medium-format
Known for
- Travel
- Versatility
- Events
- Documentary
Considerations
- Slow aperture
- Heavy
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)3, level 3 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)4, level 4 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 control3, level 3 of 5
Bokeh: Zoom character
Rendering: Versatile
Colour: Neutral
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Zoom creep
- Shutter service
Buying guide
Check the zoom mechanism and the built-in shutter.
Specifications
| Mount | Hasselblad V |
| Focal Length | 140-280mm |
| Max Aperture | f/5.6 |
| Min Aperture | f/45 |
| Min Focus | 2.5m |
| Filter Size | 93mm |
| Weight | 1850g |
Optical design
| Formula | other |
| Elements | 17 |
| Coating | Zeiss T* |
Pricing
- Typical used price (US market)
- $600 - $1000
- Mint
- ~$1200
Indicative, no dated source.