Replacement 100mm Enlarger Lens for Focomat IIc

[Rolo]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

I've renovated and cleaned up a Leitz Focomat IIc enlarger, but on first use I'm not impressed by the 100mm V-Elmar lens and want to change it.  Does anybody know what thread size it is and if there are any alternative quality lenses on the used market that will fit ?  I'd much prefer a 100mm Focotar, nut they are rarer than hen's teeth and sell for a fortune if you can find one.  I'd be happy with a Rodenstock, Schneider, Nikon, or similar, but I don't think they'll fit, or suit the auto-focus.

I contacted Kaiser, but couldn't understand their response.

I'd very much like to resurrect my darkroom. so please ......

Regards

 

[Advertisement]

The Leica Q3 is available for pre-order at B&H Photo Video and Adorama

[Wyck]

It could be worth trying Second Hand Darkroom Supplies in the UK.  Dan has always been really helpful and I know they have a few IIC there.  
 

[M.Hilo]

I have used the V Elmar 100mm from the early 80ties until about 2002 when I got the Focotar-II 100mm. Since then, I exchange these two lenses when their specific character suits a specific negative better. I print 50X60cm often and all sizes down to 24x30 (which are my work prints).

The difference between the two lenses is mostly that the Focotar has a higher contrast. And the Focotar can be used fully opened, or just one stop closed. The Elmar needs closing two stops. I do not see much or any difference in sharpness between the two lenses, although the prints from the Focotar may appear sharper because of the higher contrast.

I also have a wall mounted Durst L-1000 and use Schneider lenses in that enlarger, but also the two Leitz lenses. Hardly any difference.

Your Elmar may have a problem.

Kienzle does do a conversion from Leitz lenses in the IIc to Schneider lenses. Costly and as you will understand I never saw a need for that.

In other words, check your Elmar and don't give it up too quickly.

[M.Hilo]

ps

The thread size of the Elmar 100mm and the Focotar 100mm is the same as most enlarging lenses built after 1960 / 1970: 39mm. Also called Leica Thread. Just like EL Nikkors, Schneider, Rodenstock etc.