Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F19 Ii Review

The Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is a lens that truly stands out in a crowded market, offering a unique blend of vintage character and modern optical precision.

If you’re chasing that elusive “soap bubble” bokeh or simply crave a lens with a distinct personality, this revamped classic delivers. It’s not just a rehash.

Meyer Optik has meticulously re-engineered this lens, ensuring it meets contemporary imaging demands while retaining the beloved swirly bokeh and sharpness that made its predecessor legendary.

For those looking to inject a truly artistic and individualistic touch into their photography, especially portraits, street photography, or even abstract work, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is a compelling choice that promises to elevate your creative output beyond the mundane.

Here’s a comparison of the Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II with other relevant gear:

• Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II

  

  • Key Features: Modern re-design of a classic, f/1.9 aperture, 75mm focal length, 15 aperture blades for smooth bokeh, “soap bubble” swirl bokeh, manual focus, full-frame coverage, available in various mounts Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E, Fuji X, M4/3, Leica M.
  • Average Price: Around $2,000 – $2,500.
  • Pros: Exceptional unique swirly bokeh, sharp wide open especially in the center, robust build quality, distinct vintage character, great for portraits and creative work, excellent color rendition.
  • Cons: Expensive, manual focus only can be challenging for beginners, heavy, noticeable vignetting wide open, chromatic aberrations can be present.

• Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8

  • Key Features: 85mm focal length, f/1.8 aperture, autofocus, OLED display for focus distance and depth of field, compact and lightweight, weather-sealed, designed for Sony E-mount.
  • Average Price: Around $1,200 – $1,400.
  • Pros: Excellent sharpness, fast and accurate autofocus, beautiful smooth bokeh creamy, not swirly, good portability, weather sealing.
  • Cons: Higher price compared to some native options, less character than vintage lenses, focus-by-wire can feel less tactile for manual focus.

• Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM

  • Key Features: 85mm focal length, f/1.4 aperture, advanced optical design, 11-blade circular aperture, XA extreme aspherical element, Direct Drive SSM DDSSM for quiet autofocus, dust and moisture resistant.
  • Average Price: Around $1,600 – $1,800.
  • Pros: Stunning sharpness, incredibly smooth and creamy bokeh, superb autofocus, excellent build quality, professional-grade performance.
  • Cons: Heavy and large, very expensive, some purple fringing wide open.

• Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art DG DN

  • Key Features: 85mm focal length, f/1.4 aperture, designed for mirrorless Sony E, L-mount, high-resolution optical performance, stepping motor for quiet autofocus, 11-blade rounded diaphragm, compact and lightweight for its class.
  • Average Price: Around $1,000 – $1,200.
  • Pros: Exceptional sharpness from edge to edge, beautiful bokeh, relatively compact for an f/1.4, fast and silent autofocus, great value for money.
  • Cons: Can still be a bit large on smaller mirrorless bodies, some minor chromatic aberrations in harsh conditions.

• Nikon Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.8 S

  • Key Features: 85mm focal length, f/1.8 aperture, S-Line optical design for superior performance, multi-focus system for fast and accurate AF, custom control ring, dust and drip resistant.
  • Average Price: Around $700 – $800.
  • Pros: Outstanding sharpness even wide open, excellent bokeh, fast and quiet autofocus, compact and lightweight, great value for Nikon Z users.
  • Cons: f/1.8 aperture might not be shallow enough for some compared to f/1.4 options, less “character” than vintage lenses.

• Fujifilm Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR

  • Key Features: 56mm focal length approx. 85mm equivalent on APS-C, f/1.2 aperture, weather-resistant, updated optical formula for improved resolution and bokeh, minimal focus breathing.
  • Average Price: Around $900 – $1,000.
  • Pros: Incredibly shallow depth of field, beautiful creamy bokeh, excellent sharpness, weather-sealed, ideal for portraits on Fujifilm X series.
  • Cons: Autofocus can be slower than some modern lenses, some chromatic aberration wide open, larger than many other XF lenses.

• Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM DS

  • Key Features: 85mm focal length, f/1.2 aperture, DS Defocus Smoothing coating for exceptionally smooth bokeh, L-series build quality, Blue Spectrum Refractive Optics BR optics for chromatic aberration correction, fast USM autofocus.
  • Average Price: Around $2,700 – $3,000.
  • Pros: Unparalleled background separation, incredibly smooth bokeh, razor-sharp focus, robust professional build, excellent low-light performance.
  • Cons: Very expensive, very large and heavy, DS coating slightly reduces light transmission less bright than non-DS version, specific to Canon RF mount.

The Resurgence of Meyer Optik: A Legacy Reborn

Meyer Optik Görlitz, a name that evokes nostalgia and a specific kind of optical magic among photographers, has experienced a remarkable resurgence.

After a period of dormancy, the brand has been meticulously revitalized, bringing back cherished lens designs with modern engineering and manufacturing precision.

The Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is a prime example of this revival, demonstrating a commitment to preserving the unique optical characteristics that made these lenses famous, while also enhancing their performance for contemporary digital cameras.

• A Brief History of Innovation: Meyer Optik Görlitz boasts a rich history dating back to 1896. They were pioneers in lens design, known for their innovative approaches to aperture mechanics and optical formulas. Lenses like the Trioplan, Primoplan, and Orestor gained legendary status for their distinctive bokeh and rendering.
  • For instance, the original Primoplan 75 F1.9, introduced in the 1930s, was celebrated for its characteristic swirly bokeh and sharpness.
• The Modern Re-Engineering: The “II” in the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II signifies this rebirth. It’s not just a cosmetic refresh. the lens has been completely re-engineered from the ground up. This involves:
  • Using high-quality, modern optical glass.
  • Applying advanced multi-coatings to reduce flare and improve contrast, crucial for digital sensors.
  • Precision manufacturing processes to ensure tight tolerances and consistent performance across individual lenses.
  • Adapting the optical formula to resolve well on high-megapixel sensors, which were non-existent during the original lens’s heyday.
• Balancing Vintage Charm with Modern Demands: The challenge for Meyer Optik was to strike a delicate balance. Photographers buying these lenses aren’t just looking for clinical perfection. they want the character that the original lenses possessed. The Primoplan 75 F1.9 II achieves this by:
  • Retaining the “Soap Bubble” Bokeh: This iconic swirly bokeh is the primary draw. The lens’s optical design, particularly the arrangement of spherical aberrations, contributes to this unique effect, especially when shot wide open with busy backgrounds.
  • Improving Sharpness and Contrast: While maintaining the vintage rendering, the new version significantly improves sharpness, particularly in the center, and contrast compared to its often hazy or soft ancestors. This makes the images more usable and versatile for modern workflows.
  • Robust Build Quality: The new lenses feature all-metal construction, precision-machined barrels, and smooth focusing mechanisms, offering a tactile experience that harks back to classic manual lenses but with modern durability.

Ergonomics and Build Quality: A Tactile Experience

When you first pick up the Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II, its substantial weight and all-metal construction immediately convey a sense of quality and durability.

This isn’t a lightweight, plastic-fantastic modern lens. it’s a solid piece of engineering designed to last.

The ergonomics are decidedly “old school” in the best possible way, offering a tactile shooting experience that many photographers crave in an increasingly automated world.

• Robust All-Metal Construction: The lens barrel, focus ring, and aperture ring are all crafted from high-grade aluminum and brass. This not only contributes to its premium feel but also ensures longevity, making it a lens that can withstand the rigors of professional use.
  • Weight: Weighing in at approximately 680-700 grams depending on the mount, it has a reassuring heft. While this might be a con for those prioritizing lightweight setups, for many, it signals quality and stability.
• Smooth, Well-Damped Focus Ring: The manual focus ring is perhaps the most critical ergonomic feature of any manual lens, and the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II excels here.
  • Precision: It has a long focus throw, often around 270-300 degrees, which allows for incredibly precise focusing, essential for hitting critical focus wide open with such a shallow depth of field.
  • Feel: The damping is consistently smooth and well-weighted, neither too loose nor too stiff. This prevents accidental focus shifts while allowing for fluid adjustments. There’s no play or wobble whatsoever.
• Click-less Aperture Ring or Clicked, Depending on Version: Earlier iterations of the re-issued Meyer Optik lenses often featured click-less aperture rings, favored by videographers for smooth transitions. However, depending on the specific batch or mount, some versions of the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II may have a clicked aperture ring.
  • Benefits of Click-less: Ideal for video, as it allows for seamless aperture changes during recording without jarring steps.
  • Benefits of Clicked: Preferred by many stills photographers for tactile feedback, making it easy to adjust aperture without looking away from the viewfinder.
• No Autofocus, No Electronic Contacts mostly: This is a purely mechanical lens. It does not have autofocus, nor does it typically communicate electronically with the camera body though some modern mounts like Sony E might have rudimentary EXIF data transfer.
  • Implication: This means you’ll need to rely on your camera’s focus peaking or magnification features for accurate manual focusing. It also means the aperture value won’t be recorded in your EXIF data unless manually set on the camera.
• Integrated Lens Hood Rare, but worth noting for similar designs: While the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II typically uses a screw-on lens hood, some Meyer Optik designs, like the Trioplan 100, feature an integrated, retractable lens hood. This convenience is a nice touch for quick deployment and protection.
• Front Filter Thread: The lens usually features a standard filter thread e.g., 52mm or 58mm, depending on the specific model and production batch, allowing for the use of ND filters, polarizers, or protective UV filters.

The physical design of the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II encourages a more deliberate, thoughtful approach to photography.

It forces you to slow down, compose carefully, and focus with intent, which can be a refreshing change in an era dominated by automated systems.

Optical Performance: Bokeh, Sharpness, and Character

This is where the Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II truly earns its reputation.

It’s not a lens designed for clinical perfection or edge-to-edge sharpness at every aperture. Meyer Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 100 F28 Ii Review

Instead, it’s about the unique rendering, the signature bokeh, and the distinct character it imparts to your images.

Think of it less as a scalpel and more as a painter’s brush – you use it when you want a specific, artistic effect.

• The Legendary “Soap Bubble” Bokeh: This is the headline feature and the primary reason most photographers invest in this lens.
  • How it’s achieved: The Primoplan’s optical formula, particularly its spherical aberration correction and the large number of aperture blades typically 15, contributes to this unique effect. When shooting wide open f/1.9 or near wide open, especially with busy backgrounds that have distinct light sources or high-contrast elements, out-of-focus highlights take on a distinct “soap bubble” appearance with defined edges and a swirly, almost vortex-like effect.
  • Ideal Conditions: The effect is most pronounced when the background is sufficiently far from the subject and contains points of light e.g., streetlights at night, dappled sunlight through leaves, specular reflections. The “swirl” is typically stronger towards the edges of the frame.
  • Comparison: Unlike the “creamy” or “buttery” bokeh of many modern fast primes like the Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM or Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L, the Primoplan’s bokeh is more pronounced and energetic, making it an excellent choice for artistic portraits or separating subjects dramatically from their surroundings.
• Sharpness Center vs. Edges:
  • Wide Open f/1.9: The Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is surprisingly sharp in the center, even at f/1.9. This is a significant improvement over many true vintage lenses, which can be quite soft wide open. Your subject, when in focus, will exhibit good detail.
  • Edge Sharpness: As you move towards the edges and corners of the frame, sharpness drops off noticeably. This is part of its character and contributes to the swirly bokeh effect by blurring the periphery, drawing the eye to the sharp center. This isn’t a flaw. it’s a design choice for a specific rendering.
  • Stopped Down: Stopping down to f/2.8 or f/4 significantly improves overall sharpness across the frame, though the unique bokeh effect diminishes as the aperture closes. For general shooting where the swirly bokeh isn’t desired, it can still deliver very good results.
• Chromatic Aberrations:
  • Longitudinal CA LoCA/Bokeh Fringing: Like many fast lenses, particularly those with vintage designs, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II can exhibit some longitudinal chromatic aberration color fringing in front of and behind the focal plane and purple fringing on high-contrast edges, especially wide open. This can often be corrected in post-processing.
  • Lateral CA: Lateral CA color fringing along high-contrast edges, irrespective of focus is generally well-controlled but can appear in extreme conditions.
• Vignetting:
  • Pronounced Wide Open: There is noticeable vignetting darkening towards the corners at f/1.9. This adds to the artistic feel, further isolating the central subject.
  • Clears Up: Stopping down quickly reduces the vignetting, and it largely disappears by f/2.8 or f/4.
• Flare and Contrast:
  • Modern Coatings: The re-engineered version benefits from modern multi-coatings, which help manage flare and ghosting better than the original vintage lenses. However, direct strong light sources can still produce some creative flare, which can be used for artistic effect.
  • Good Contrast: While not as clinically contrasty as modern APO-designed lenses, the Primoplan II offers very good contrast, especially for a lens designed to replicate a vintage feel. Colors are generally rendered pleasingly and naturally.
• Color Rendition: The lens tends to produce rich, natural colors with a pleasing warmth. It doesn’t have a harsh or sterile feel, contributing to the overall artistic aesthetic.

In essence, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is a specialist lens.

It excels at creating images with a distinctive, painterly quality that is difficult to replicate with other optics.

If you appreciate lenses with character over absolute technical perfection, this lens will be a joy to use and can unlock new creative possibilities.

Manual Focus Experience: Mastering the Art of Precision

The Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is a purely manual focus lens, a deliberate choice by the manufacturer to embrace the traditional photographic experience. For some, this might be a hurdle.

For others, it’s an invitation to slow down and truly engage with the focusing process.

Mastering manual focus with this lens, especially wide open at f/1.9, is crucial for unlocking its full potential.

• Focus Throw and Damping:
  • Long Throw: As mentioned in the ergonomics section, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II typically features a long focus throw often over 270 degrees. This extended rotation allows for extremely fine adjustments, which is indispensable for achieving critical focus, especially with the shallow depth of field at f/1.9. A short focus throw on a fast lens would make precise focusing nearly impossible.
  • Smooth Damping: The focus ring operates with buttery smoothness and consistent damping. There’s no grittiness, stickiness, or play. This ensures that your focusing movements are fluid and precise, allowing you to dial in focus with confidence.
• Aperture Ring: The aperture ring, typically located closer to the camera body, also operates smoothly. Whether it’s clicked or de-clicked depending on the specific version, its movement is consistent and allows for deliberate aperture adjustments without accidentally changing focus.
• Utilizing Camera Features for Manual Focus: Modern mirrorless cameras, in particular, offer powerful tools that greatly assist manual focusing:
  • Focus Peaking: This widely available feature highlights in-focus edges with a specific color e.g., red, white, yellow. It’s incredibly useful for quickly identifying where focus lies, especially for subjects with defined outlines. You can often adjust the sensitivity and color of the peaking.
  • Magnification/Zoom Assist: Most cameras allow you to magnify a portion of the live view image, sometimes up to 10x or even 12x, to nail critical focus. This is essential for achieving tack-sharp results, especially for portraits where eye focus is paramount.
    • Workflow: A common workflow involves rough focusing with focus peaking, then zooming in to fine-tune focus on the most important detail e.g., the subject’s eye.
  • Electronic Viewfinder EVF: The high-resolution EVFs in modern mirrorless cameras provide a bright and clear view, allowing for accurate manual focusing even in challenging lighting conditions. What you see is what you get regarding exposure and depth of field.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Manual focusing, especially with a fast prime like the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II, requires practice.
  • Muscle Memory: Over time, you’ll develop muscle memory for the focus throw and learn to anticipate how much to turn the ring for different distances.
  • Rhythm: It encourages a slower, more deliberate shooting rhythm, which can lead to more thoughtfully composed and executed photographs.
  • “Focus and Recompose”: This classic technique involves focusing on your subject, then slightly recomposing the shot while maintaining the camera-to-subject distance. Be mindful of focus shift if you’re recomposing significantly or using an extremely shallow depth of field.
• Advantages of Manual Focus:
  • Precision in Specific Situations: For static subjects, macro photography, or when shooting through obstacles like glass or fences, manual focus can often be more precise and reliable than autofocus.
  • Tactile Control: Many photographers simply prefer the direct, hands-on control that manual focus provides. It feels more connected to the act of image creation.
  • Creative Control: Manual focus allows for creative effects like focus pulls in video or intentional soft focus for artistic purposes.

While the absence of autofocus means the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II might not be the fastest lens for dynamic subjects, it’s a fantastic tool for deliberate portraiture, still life, and creative street photography where the unique rendering is prioritized over speed.

Ideal Use Cases: Unleashing the Primoplan’s Creativity

The Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is not a general-purpose lens. Roku Express 4K Plus Review

It’s a specialist tool designed to create specific artistic effects.

Its unique optical signature makes it shine in particular photographic genres where character and expressive rendering are prioritized over clinical perfection.

If you’re looking for a lens that helps your images stand out with a distinct personality, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is an excellent candidate.

• Portrait Photography: This is arguably where the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II truly excels.
  • Subject Separation: The shallow depth of field at f/1.9 combined with the distinct swirly bokeh creates incredible subject separation, making your subject pop dramatically from the background.
  • Artistic Backgrounds: The “soap bubble” swirl transforms busy or distracting backgrounds into an ethereal, painterly swirl, adding an artistic dimension to your portraits that is difficult to achieve with other lenses. Imagine a portrait shot against a backdrop of twinkling city lights or dappled sunlight through trees – the Primoplan turns these into abstract art.
  • Headshots and Upper Body Portraits: The 75mm focal length is ideal for tighter headshots or upper body portraits, providing a natural perspective and flattering compression without being overly telephoto.
• Creative Still Life and Product Photography:
  • Selective Focus: For still life compositions, the Primoplan can isolate specific elements with extreme precision, drawing the viewer’s eye to key details while surrounding them with a dreamy blur.
  • Highlight Rendering: If your still life includes reflective surfaces or light sources, the lens’s ability to render “soap bubble” highlights can add a magical, almost fantastical element to the image. This is particularly effective for capturing intricate details of vintage items, glassware, or jewelry though be mindful of reflections.
• Nature and Botanical Photography with caution:
  • Flora Isolation: Individual flowers or leaves can be beautifully isolated from their natural surroundings, making them truly stand out. The swirly bokeh can turn a busy garden background into an abstract swirl of color and light.
  • Specific Lighting: The effect is most pronounced when there’s dappled light or specular highlights in the background, making it suitable for woodland paths or areas with varied lighting.
  • Caution: Requires careful composition to ensure the background allows for the swirl to form effectively.
• Street Photography Creative and Deliberate:
  • Selective Focus: While manual focus on the street can be challenging for fleeting moments, for more deliberate compositions or portraits within a street scene, the Primoplan allows you to isolate a subject from a chaotic urban background.
  • Environmental Portraits: Use the 75mm focal length to capture individuals within their environment, allowing the background to melt into a swirly abstraction while the person remains sharp.
  • Abstract Elements: Look for opportunities where lights or reflections in the background can be transformed into the iconic “soap bubble” bokeh.
• Video Applications Cinematic Look:
  • Unique Aesthetic: The manual nature and distinctive bokeh of the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II make it a compelling choice for videographers seeking a unique, cinematic aesthetic.
  • Manual Focus Pulls: The long and smooth focus throw is excellent for executing precise and artistic focus pulls during video recording.
  • Character Over Perfection: It adds a “film-like” or “vintage” quality to footage, which can be desirable for short films, podcast videos, or artistic projects. The de-clicked aperture if present is a major advantage here.

The key to successfully using the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is to embrace its characteristics rather than fighting them.

It’s a lens that inspires creativity and encourages you to see the world in a slightly different, more artistic way.

Comparing with Modern Equivalents: Character vs. Clinicality

The photographic lens market is broadly divided into two philosophies: lenses designed for clinical perfection – maximum sharpness, minimal aberrations, and neutral rendering – and lenses designed for character – unique bokeh, specific rendering styles, or vintage appeal.

The Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II firmly belongs to the latter category, standing in stark contrast to many of the modern 85mm-equivalent primes.

Understanding this distinction is crucial when deciding if this lens is right for you.

• Modern 85mm Primes e.g., Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM, Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L, Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art:

  • Design Philosophy: These lenses are engineered with the latest optical technologies e.g., aspherical elements, low-dispersion glass, advanced coatings to deliver outstanding sharpness across the frame, even wide open.
  • Bokeh: Their bokeh is typically smooth, creamy, and designed to be as “clean” and non-distracting as possible. Highlight rendering is usually circular and consistent, without strong swirling or outlining.
  • Autofocus: They feature fast, accurate, and often silent autofocus systems, making them ideal for dynamic subjects, professional workflows, and shooting in challenging conditions.
  • Chromatic Aberrations: CA is generally extremely well-controlled, thanks to sophisticated optical designs.
  • Vignetting & Distortion: Minimized through design and often further corrected in-camera.
  • Price: Often premium-priced, reflecting the advanced technology and performance.
  • Pros: Uncompromising sharpness, reliable autofocus, clinically perfect rendering, versatile for a wide range of shooting scenarios.
  • Cons: Can sometimes be perceived as “sterile” or lacking unique character. images might look too “perfect” for some artistic visions.

• Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II and similar character lenses: Cryptoprevent Premium Review

  • Design Philosophy: While re-engineered with modern precision, its core design aims to replicate and enhance the specific optical anomalies like spherical aberration that create its signature look.
  • Bokeh: The defining feature. The “soap bubble” swirl is a deliberate and celebrated characteristic. It’s not about smoothness but about distinctiveness and artistic flair.
  • Manual Focus Only: Requires a more deliberate, hands-on approach. No autofocus means slower shooting, but greater control.
  • Chromatic Aberrations: Present, particularly purple fringing and longitudinal CA, especially wide open. These are often seen as part of the lens’s character rather than flaws to be entirely eradicated.
  • Vignetting: Often more pronounced wide open, contributing to the artistic effect by drawing the eye to the center.
  • Price: Can be premium, reflecting the niche appeal, intricate manufacturing, and brand legacy.
  • Pros: Unparalleled unique swirly bokeh, distinct vintage character, inspires creative shooting, excellent build quality, images stand out.

• The Trade-off: The choice between a modern 85mm prime and the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II boils down to your photographic priorities.

  • If you need speed, reliability, and clinical perfection for professional work or diverse shooting scenarios, a modern autofocus 85mm is likely your go-to.
  • If you’re willing to slow down, embrace manual focus, and prioritize unique artistic expression and a distinctive “look” that differentiates your work, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is an invaluable tool. It adds a layer of artistry that post-processing filters often fail to authentically replicate.

Ultimately, both types of lenses have their place.

Many professional photographers own both: a modern 85mm for their bread-and-butter work and a character lens like the Primoplan for specific creative projects or when they want to inject a unique aesthetic into their portfolio.

Value Proposition and Investment Considerations

The Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is a premium-priced lens, often commanding a cost similar to or even exceeding some top-tier autofocus primes from major manufacturers.

This immediately raises the question of its value proposition.

Is it worth the investment? The answer largely depends on your photographic goals, budget, and appreciation for unique optical character.

• Understanding the Cost: The price tag of the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II isn’t simply for its optical formula. it reflects several factors:
  • Niche Market: It’s a specialist lens catering to a relatively small segment of photographers who actively seek out unique optical properties. Production volumes are lower than mass-market lenses.
  • Precision Manufacturing: The all-metal construction, precise machining, and meticulous assembly required to achieve its smooth mechanical operation and consistent optical performance contribute significantly to the cost. These aren’t automated, high-volume production lines.
  • Brand Legacy and Rebirth: Part of the value is tied to the historical legacy of Meyer Optik Görlitz and the investment required to re-establish and revitalize the brand with modern standards.
  • Hand-Assembled Quality: Many of these lenses are at least partially hand-assembled and individually tested, ensuring higher quality control but adding to labor costs.
• The “Character” Premium: You’re not just buying a lens. you’re buying a specific artistic tool that produces a unique, sought-after effect.
  • Uniqueness: The “soap bubble” bokeh is difficult, if not impossible, to perfectly replicate with other lenses or in post-processing. This distinctiveness holds value for photographers who want to differentiate their work.
  • Artistic Expression: For portrait artists, fine art photographers, or those creating editorial work where a unique aesthetic is desired, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II becomes an extension of their creative vision. It’s an investment in a specific look.
• Considerations Before Buying:
  • Your Budget: Clearly, this isn’t a budget-friendly option. Ensure it fits within your financial plans without causing undue strain.
  • Your Photographic Style: Are you truly drawn to the vintage aesthetic and swirly bokeh? If you prefer clinically perfect, sharp-across-the-frame images, this lens might not be for you, and a modern prime would be a better investment.
  • Willingness to Manual Focus: This is paramount. If you’re reliant on autofocus for most of your work or find manual focus frustrating, the Primoplan will be a source of constant irritation rather than joy.
  • Complementary vs. Primary Lens: For most photographers, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II will be a complementary lens in their kit, used for specific creative projects rather than an everyday workhorse. Do you have other lenses that cover your general shooting needs?
  • Resale Value: While a niche market, well-maintained Meyer Optik lenses, especially those with unique characteristics, tend to hold their value reasonably well due to their specialized appeal.
• Alternatives to Consider:
  • Original Vintage Primoplan/Trioplan: You can find original vintage lenses from Meyer Optik, often at a lower price. However, these will likely suffer from optical imperfections haze, fungus, softer wide open and may require adapters. They also lack modern coatings.
  • Other “Character” Lenses: Brands like Lensbaby also offer creative effects, but they often produce a different “look.” The “soap bubble” bokeh is unique to the Primoplan/Trioplan.
  • Modern Fast Primes: If ultimate sharpness, fast AF, and clean bokeh are your priorities, the aforementioned Sony, Canon, Sigma, or Nikon 85mm f/1.4/f/1.8 options offer superior technical performance at similar or lower price points.

In conclusion, the Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is an investment in artistic expression.

It’s for the photographer who understands and desires its unique optical signature and is willing to pay a premium for that specific creative tool.

If you value distinct character over absolute technical perfection and embrace the manual shooting process, it can be a highly rewarding addition to your lens arsenal.

The Future of Character Lenses in a Digital Age

In an era dominated by ever-increasing megapixels, computationally enhanced imagery, and autofocus systems that can track an eyelash, the resurgence of “character” lenses like the Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II speaks volumes about a growing counter-movement in photography. Drop Shift Mechanical Keyboard Review

Photographers are increasingly seeking tools that differentiate their work beyond mere technical perfection, desiring lenses that impart a unique aesthetic directly in-camera.

• Rebellion Against Perfection: As mainstream lenses become optically near-perfect – corrected for every aberration, tack sharp from corner to corner – the visual output can sometimes feel clinical or homogenized. Character lenses offer a refreshing departure, embracing optical “flaws” as artistic opportunities.
  • The “Human” Touch: These lenses inject a sense of imperfection and artistry, akin to using specific film stocks or analog processes. They celebrate light, bokeh, and rendering in ways that AI filters often struggle to replicate authentically.
• The Rise of Mirrorless Systems: Modern mirrorless cameras have been instrumental in this resurgence.
  • Focus Peaking & EVFs: Features like focus peaking and high-resolution electronic viewfinders make manual focusing significantly easier and more precise than on traditional DSLR optical viewfinders. This removes a major barrier for many photographers considering manual-only lenses.
  • Adaptability: The short flange distance of mirrorless systems makes them highly adaptable to a vast array of legacy and third-party manual lenses, including vintage optics and re-engineered classics like the Primoplan II. This opens up a world of optical possibilities that were previously cumbersome or impossible to mount on DSLRs.
• The “Artistic” Niche: Manufacturers like Meyer Optik Görlitz, alongside other boutique lens makers, recognize this burgeoning market for artistic tools.
  • Specialized Offerings: Instead of competing with the mainstream giants on autofocus speed or clinical sharpness, they focus on delivering unique optical signatures that appeal to specific creative needs.
  • Craftsmanship: There’s also an appreciation for the craftsmanship and tactile experience of these lenses. The all-metal construction, smooth focus rings, and manual operation resonate with photographers who enjoy the physical act of shooting.
• Beyond Bokeh: While unique bokeh like the “soap bubble” swirl, triplet swirl, or creamy softness is a significant draw, character lenses also offer:
  • Unique Flare Characteristics: How a lens handles direct light sources – producing interesting flares, ghosting, or veiling – can be a creative asset.
  • Color Rendition: Different lenses have subtle differences in how they render colors, adding to their distinct personality.
  • Vignetting and Fall-off: Natural vignetting and a gentle fall-off in sharpness towards the edges can frame a subject and create a dreamlike quality.
• Sustainability and Longevity: Investing in a well-built manual lens can be a long-term proposition. Unlike autofocus lenses tied to specific camera systems, a manual lens can often be adapted to future camera bodies, potentially outlasting multiple camera upgrades.
• The Creative Imperative: In a world saturated with digital images, photographers are constantly looking for ways to make their work stand out. Character lenses offer a powerful avenue for achieving this by providing an immediate, in-camera artistic effect that adds depth, emotion, and a distinct visual signature to photographs. This trend is likely to continue as photographers seek to express their individuality through their craft.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II?

The Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is a modern re-issue of a classic vintage lens, known for its unique “soap bubble” swirly bokeh and sharp central performance, especially at its wide f/1.9 aperture.

What makes the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II’s bokeh unique?

The lens’s optical design, particularly its spherical aberration correction and 15 aperture blades, produces out-of-focus highlights that appear as distinct “soap bubbles” with defined edges, combined with a swirling effect in the background, especially when shot wide open.

Is the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II an autofocus lens?

No, the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is a purely manual focus lens.

You’ll need to rely on your camera’s focus peaking and magnification features for accurate focusing.

What camera mounts is the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II available for?

It is typically available for a range of modern camera mounts, including Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E, Fuji X, Micro Four Thirds M4/3, and Leica M.

How sharp is the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II?

The Primoplan 75 F1.9 II is surprisingly sharp in the center even wide open at f/1.9. Sharpness decreases towards the edges of the frame, which contributes to its unique rendering.

Does the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II have good build quality?

Yes, it features robust all-metal construction, with precision-machined components, providing a very tactile and durable feel.

Is the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II suitable for video?

Yes, its manual focus, often de-clicked aperture depending on the version, and unique cinematic look make it a compelling choice for videographers seeking a distinctive aesthetic and smooth focus pulls.

What are the main pros of the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II?

The main pros include its unique swirly “soap bubble” bokeh, sharp central performance, robust build quality, and distinct vintage character. Faxplus Review

What are the main cons of the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II?

The main cons are its high price, manual focus only, noticeable vignetting wide open, and some chromatic aberrations.

Is the Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F1.9 II worth the price?

Whether it’s “worth it” depends on your priorities.

If you highly value its unique artistic rendering and are willing to pay a premium for a specialist, character-driven lens, then yes.

If you prioritize clinical sharpness and autofocus, other lenses offer better value.

How does the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II compare to modern 85mm f/1.4 lenses?

Modern 85mm f/1.4 lenses typically offer clinical sharpness, fast autofocus, and very smooth, creamy bokeh.

The Primoplan 75 F1.9 II offers a unique, character-filled rendering with swirly bokeh and manual focus, trading clinical perfection for artistic expression.

What types of photography is the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II best for?

It is ideal for portrait photography, creative still life, botanical photography, and artistic street photography where you want to achieve a unique, painterly, and dreamlike background separation.

Does the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II have chromatic aberration?

Yes, like many fast lenses, especially those with vintage-inspired designs, it can exhibit some longitudinal chromatic aberration color fringing in front/behind focus and purple fringing on high-contrast edges when shot wide open.

How many aperture blades does the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II have?

It typically features 15 aperture blades, which contribute significantly to its smooth and distinctive bokeh rendering.

Can I use the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II on a crop sensor camera?

Yes, you can use it on crop sensor cameras, but the effective focal length will be longer e.g., approximately 112mm on APS-C, 150mm on M4/3, and the swirly bokeh effect might be less pronounced due to the smaller sensor area. Vizio M70Q6 J Review

Is the aperture ring clicked or de-clicked?

Depending on the specific production batch and mount, the aperture ring can be either clicked for stills or de-clicked for smooth video aperture changes. Some early re-issues were primarily de-clicked.

How does the re-engineered “II” version differ from the original vintage Primoplan 75 F1.9?

The “II” version uses modern optical glass and multi-coatings for improved sharpness, contrast, and reduced flare compared to the original, while meticulously retaining the signature swirly bokeh and character.

Does the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II come with a lens hood?

Yes, it usually comes with a dedicated screw-on lens hood.

What is the minimum focusing distance of the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II?

The minimum focusing distance is typically around 0.75 meters approx.

2.46 feet, allowing for relatively close-up shots.

Does the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II communicate electronically with the camera?

Generally, no.

It is a purely mechanical lens and typically does not transfer EXIF data like aperture value to the camera body, though some newer mounts might have limited contact pins for basic communication.

Is the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II weather-sealed?

No, it is not typically weather-sealed.

Its all-metal construction is durable, but it lacks specific seals against dust and moisture.

What kind of filter thread does the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II have?

The filter thread size varies slightly depending on the specific model and production run, but it is typically a common size like 52mm or 58mm. Teamgroup T Force Cardea Iops Review

How difficult is it to learn manual focusing with this lens?

With modern mirrorless camera features like focus peaking and magnification, learning manual focus is significantly easier than on older DSLRs. Practice is key to becoming proficient.

Does the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II have focus breathing?

As a manual prime lens, focus breathing change in focal length as you focus can be present, though it is usually minimal enough for general photography and can be managed for video.

Is this lens good for low-light photography?

With an f/1.9 aperture, it’s relatively fast and good for low-light conditions, especially for isolating subjects.

However, manual focus in very dim light can be challenging.

Can I achieve the “soap bubble” bokeh at smaller apertures?

The “soap bubble” bokeh effect is most pronounced at f/1.9 and f/2.8. As you stop down to smaller apertures e.g., f/4 and beyond, the effect diminishes significantly as the depth of field increases and highlights become less defined.

What is the warranty like for Meyer Optik Gorlitz lenses?

Warranty terms can vary by region and retailer, but Meyer Optik typically offers a standard manufacturer’s warranty for defects. It’s best to check with an authorized dealer.

Is the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II heavy?

Yes, it has a substantial weight around 680-700g due to its all-metal construction, which can feel heavy on smaller mirrorless bodies.

Are there any software profiles for the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II in Lightroom/Capture One?

Due to its manual nature and varying optical characteristics, dedicated automatic lens correction profiles are rare.

Corrections for vignetting and CA usually need to be applied manually or by eye.

Why choose the Primoplan 75 F1.9 II over a cheaper vintage lens?

The “II” version offers the unique character of the vintage lens with the added benefits of modern coatings, improved sharpness, better contrast, and a more robust, precisely manufactured build, reducing the risk of optical imperfections common in old lenses. Vankyo 1080P Mini Wireless Leisure 530W Projector Review