Tessar Silver 12 Blade

Inspector’s condition notes

Lens in like-new condition. The Carl Zeiss Portial lens with beautiful bokeh—featuring 12 aperture blades that produce round bokeh across the entire f-stop range. Optical in perfect condition, free of scratches. Focus and aperture ring operate as smoothly as a new lens. Internal components are tight and solid, with no internal lens movement or rattle. External body condition is like new, though there are 2–3 small areas of paint loss or scratches along the lens barrel edges or around the focus ring and aperture ring (you have to look closely to notice).

How this lens renders

Compared to the 50mm lens of the same spec, this Tessar is the original of the legendary design dating back to 1902, known for its center-frame sharpness. Wide open at f/2.8, the center of the image is slightly soft in that classic-era lens way. When you stop down to f/4, the center-frame detail becomes noticeably sharper and cleaner, pulling out full sharpness across the f/8 range. The edges of the frame are softer than the center, true to the unique character of the Tessar design. The bokeh has that natural, mixed look typical of this lens family, but with 12 aperture blades, the bokeh circles are noticeably rounder and smoother than the later 5-blade versions. It delivers a flexible vintage film tone that grades easily. Perfect for those seeking center-frame sharpness and portraits with a vintage feel. The compact silver body is a landmark in lens history—well worth collecting.

Honest disclosure