Tessar Silver 12 Blade

Inspector’s condition notes

Lens in good condition, with all the hallmarks of a great lens. Carl Zeiss Tessar lineage, spanning from the 1Q, Red T, and Preset versions through to the 12-Blade. This particular copy also comes with two macro extension tubes included. The tubes are well-made with a sandblasted finish that feels solid and secure in the hand. The optics are pristine — no scratches. Focus and aperture are silky smooth, just like a new lens. The internal elements are tight, with no rattle or loose parts. The exterior shows honest use, with some easily noticeable scratches and paint loss scattered around the lens body.

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.

In the box

ฝาหน้าแท้ ฝาหลังแท้ พร้อมท่อต่อมาโครสองชิ้น

Honest disclosure