I currently own the 55/4 lens, and am looking for something a little (or a lot) wider. The only rectilinear option right now would be the 45mm, which to me doesn't seem like enough of a jump to justify the money. (How many rolls of B&W could you shoot for $700 ?) I can't see buying the 35mm fish-eye -- maybe two rolls and you're tired of it. I'm wondering if anyone has heard of any plans for a rectilinear 35mm? It seems to me that most people would prefer one over the fish-eye. Any rumors?

-- david cox (dcox@cafes.net), August 09, 2001

Answers

A rectilinear 35mm has been discussed on this forum in the past. Making such a lens is possible, especially if aspheric surfaces are used. I have not heard of any rumors from Asahi Optical about the production of a new 35mm, however, if one were designed, I would surely buy one.

There actually is a good difference between the 55mm and 45mm in angle of view. I would suggest trying one out before buying.

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), August 09, 2001.

I second the idea that the 45mm is not as close to the 55mm as many people might assume. I own both lenses, and they are the two most used lenses in my bag. It is a very popular lens, and if you could find a way of borrowing one for a weekend (or renting it), you might end up buying it. I think you could do better than $700, though not if you only buy "new" (I bought a demo with an 82mm Hoya UV for $525, which is about what a mint one sells for on ebay, maybe a little less). It is a nice lens.

-- Carl Tower (cjtowerman@yahoo.com), August 10, 2001.