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Goerz Dagor 7" (178mm) f/6.8 Copal

The Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8 is a lens from Goerz. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Goerz Dagor 7" (178mm) f/6.8 Copal

Goerz Dagor 7" (178mm) f/6.8 Copal

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Lens Overview — Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8

The Goerz Dagor 7" (178mm) f/6.8 is a vintage large format lens manufactured prior to 1950, mounted in a Copal mechanical shutter. Designed for large format sheet film photography, it mounts via a lens board to technical cameras — the standard interface for large format systems. With a maximum aperture of f/6.8 and a focal length of 178mm, this lens represents a classic optical design from an era when Goerz was among the most respected names in precision optics.

The lens is operated entirely through manual focus, as expected of a pre-1950 large format optic, and the Copal shutter provides reliable mechanical timing for exposures. It is compatible with large format barrel lens systems, making it a natural fit for field and studio technical cameras that accept standard lens boards. Weighing between 300 and 400 grams, the lens is reasonably manageable for large format work.

For collectors, film photographers, and large format enthusiasts seeking a historically significant and functional optic, the Dagor in Copal shutter offers a compelling combination of usability and vintage character.

Key Features — Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8

178mm f/6.8 Dagor Optic: A classic double-anastigmat design offering a versatile focal length well-suited to portraits, architecture, and general large format work.

Copal Mechanical Shutter: Fitted with a Copal shutter rather than the original barrel, providing reliable, user-serviceable exposure timing across standard shutter speeds.

Large Format Coverage: The Dagor design is known for covering film formats beyond its rated circle, making it usable on 8x10 and potentially larger formats at smaller apertures.

Lens Board Mount: Mounts via standard lens board to most technical and field cameras, including Linhof, Sinar, Toyo, and similar large format systems.

Pre-1950 Manufacture: Produced by Goerz during their most celebrated period, giving the lens genuine historical provenance alongside functional usability.

Manual Focus Design: Focused via the camera's rail or bed in the traditional large format workflow, with no electronic or mechanical focus assist required.

Lens Specifications — Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8

Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesLandscape, Architecture, Studio
Lens MountLens Board (Technical Camera)
Focus TypeManual Focus

Description — Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8

The Goerz Dagor 7" (178mm) f/6.8 is a pre-1950 vintage large format lens mounted in a Copal mechanical shutter, offering a fully functional classic optic for today's large format film photographers and collectors. Designed for large format sheet film, it attaches to technical cameras via a standard lens board mount, ensuring broad compatibility with field and studio large format systems that accept barrel lenses. The lens operates with manual focus throughout, consistent with large format shooting practices where precise ground-glass focusing is the norm.

At a weight of 300–400 grams, it is practical to carry in the field without excessive burden on a camera system. The Copal shutter provides mechanically timed exposure control, and its serviceability makes this a practical choice for photographers who want a working vintage lens rather than a shelf display piece. Whether you are drawn to large format film for its tonal qualities, its deliberate pace, or the historical craft of pre-war optics, this Goerz Dagor offers a direct connection to that tradition.

Pros — Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8

  • ✓Classic 178mm (7") focal length at f/6.8 maximum aperture — a versatile specification for large format work
  • ✓Mounted in a Copal mechanical shutter, providing reliable and serviceable exposure control
  • ✓Compatible with lens board (technical camera) mount — the widely used large format standard

Cons — Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8

  • ✗Maximum aperture of f/6.8 limits light transmission compared to faster large format options
  • ✗Manual focus only — no modern autofocus capability
  • ✗Pre-1950 manufacture means no guarantee of shutter calibration accuracy without servicing

Resources & Downloads — Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Goerz 7" (178mm) f/6.8

What camera systems is this lens compatible with?+
This lens is designed for large format technical cameras that accept a standard lens board mount. It is listed as compatible with large format barrel lenses, making it suitable for field and monorail large format systems that use this interface.
Does this lens have a shutter, and what type?+
Yes, the lens is fitted with a Copal mechanical shutter. This is a fully mechanical timing mechanism and does not require batteries or electronic controls to operate.
What film format is this lens intended for?+
The lens is specified for large format sheet film photography. It is not designed for 35mm or medium format systems.
How heavy is this lens?+
The lens weighs between 300 and 400 grams according to the listed specifications, which is a manageable weight for large format field use.
When was this lens manufactured?+
The year of manufacture is listed as pre-1950, making this a genuine vintage optic. Buyers should factor in the age when evaluating the condition of the shutter and glass.

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