Schneider 80mm f/2.8 Xenotar Lens
The Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8 is a lens from Schneider-Kreuznach. Used copies start from $999 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Schneider 80mm f/2.8 Xenotar Lens
Used Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8 Listings on GearFocus
Lens Overview — Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8
Key Features — Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8
80mm f/2.8 Xenotar Optic: A classic Schneider-Kreuznach optical formula delivering sharp, characterful rendering well-suited to portrait and general medium format photography.
Hasselblad V Mount: Natively fits Hasselblad V series bodies, one of the most widely used medium format systems.
Built-In Leaf Shutter: Enables flash synchronization at all shutter speeds, making this lens particularly practical for studio and location work with flash.
Medium Format 120 Coverage: Image circle designed for 120 film, covering the full medium format frame for maximum detail and tonal depth.
Manual Focus Operation: Fully manual focus ring allows deliberate, precise control typical of medium format shooting workflows.
1960s German Manufacture: Produced in West Germany during the 1960s, reflecting the precision craftsmanship Schneider-Kreuznach was known for during this era.
Lens Specifications — Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Portrait, Studio, Creative Effects |
| Lens Mount | Mamiya 645, Hasselblad V |
| Focus Type | Manual Focus |
Description — Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8
The Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8 Xenotar is a vintage medium format lens produced during the 1960s, designed primarily for the Hasselblad V mount with additional compatibility for Mamiya 645 systems. It is built to cover the Medium Format (120) film format, making it appropriate for the larger negative dimensions associated with this format. The lens features manual focus operation, offering the deliberate, hands-on shooting experience that medium format film photography demands.
A standout technical characteristic is its leaf shutter mechanism, which resides within the lens body and allows flash synchronization at all shutter speeds — a meaningful advantage for portrait and studio photographers. Weighing between 600g and 700g, the Xenotar is a solidly constructed optic befitting its era of manufacture. For collectors and working film photographers alike, this lens represents a notable piece of 1960s German optical heritage from one of the most respected names in medium format glass, well-suited to Hasselblad V and Mamiya 645 camera systems.
Pros — Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8
- ✓Hasselblad V and Mamiya 645 mount compatibility offers flexibility across two popular medium format systems
- ✓Leaf shutter design enables full flash sync at all shutter speeds, a significant advantage for studio work
- ✓Manual focus operation provides precise, deliberate control suited to medium format shooting workflows
Cons — Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8
- ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus capability, which may slow down fast-paced shooting situations
- ✗Weight of 600–700g is substantial and may add fatigue during extended handheld sessions
- ✗Vintage manufacture (1960–1969) means individual sample condition can vary significantly on the used market
Videos — Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm f/2.8
Adapting a Schneider 80mm Lens to the Pentax 67 - A Unique Option — Kyle McDougall







