JUPITER-12  2.8/35mm

Focal length: 35mm
Mount: M39
Aperture: F 2.8 - F 22
Min focus distance: 1m
Length (from flange): 27/30mm [+ 11mm for the adapter],
rear element protrudes 22mm (!), so be cautious and see last paragraph
Diameter: 51mm
Weight: 95gr.

Some pictures:


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A7 and the lens.

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The back part of the lens is impressing,
the rear element protrudes 22mm (!).

Sample pictures: You may click on the sample image (except closest focus) for full resolution. The full resolution image opens in a new window, so you can keep it open for comparison. Focus is on the satellite dish to the right of the big solar panel near the center of the photo.

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F 2.8.

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F 8.

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F 22.

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Closest focus
 is 80cm from outermost edge of the lens, F 8. Focus on the program wheel of the camera.

In my opinion this lens is a deception for full format digital. As far as I remember it delivered quite good results on film with a Bessa L. It's based on the famous Biogon design; there are good evaluations on the web that I can't confirm. It is soft wide open. Closed down it's better in the center, but there is flare at the edges, see the lower left corner. Maybe the design isn't good for full format digital, just as the old 15mm Heliar. I also have 2 Contax mount variants of these, they have the same problems. The lens has no close focussing capablities. However it is small and lightweight.

As this lens has an enormous protruding rear element with an unprocted glass, it has to be handled with care. The A7 has just, but just enough room inside for my version of the lens, check yours at your own risk. For security reasons set the lens to closest focus while attaching it, which shifts the back part inside for 2mm, at least it does on my version, there are people who claim the opposite. Anyway, it still sticks out of the adapter. So if you want to use it on another model of camera, please check. There is not enough room for it in the A5000/6000. If you don't have the special rear cap: an empty transparent plastic film container from 35mm film cut to half the hight will perfectly stick and protect the back of the lens.

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