Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II

Canon EF

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II is a vintage-style lens that has gained popularity among photographers seeking a unique rendering and character in their images. As part of the esteemed Meyer-Optik lineup, this lens is known for its ability to produce stunning bokeh and sharp images at wide apertures, making it a desirable choice for portrait and wedding photographers.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Primoplan reflects the craftsmanship associated with vintage glass. It features a solid metal body that is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. The focus ring is smooth and provides a satisfying tactile experience, allowing for precise adjustments when shooting at wide apertures. The lens also has a manual aperture ring, which can be a fun and rewarding experience for those who enjoy full control over their settings. Its compact size makes it relatively easy to handle, especially for a fast lens.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II is impressive. At f/1.9, the lens can produce sharp images with excellent contrast. The unique optical design allows for the kind of dreamy bokeh that many portrait photographers crave. Highlights are rendered beautifully, with a pleasing swirl effect that can add a touch of artfulness to images. However, stopping down to around f/2.8 to f/4 does reveal its full potential, providing stunning sharpness across the frame and good color rendition.

Aberrations and Performance in Different Conditions

While the lens excels in many areas, it is important to consider its performance in challenging conditions. At wider apertures, some users may notice a slight softness in the corners, which could be a concern for those wanting edge-to-edge sharpness. Additionally, chromatic aberration can become apparent in high-contrast situations, which may require some post-processing to correct.

The lens's focus can also be a bit tricky; due to its shallow depth of field, especially at f/1.9, achieving critical focus can be challenging, particularly for beginners or those not accustomed to manual focusing. Low-light performance is generally good, but there are limits to bear in mind.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional bokeh that creates a dreamy aesthetic, ideal for portraits.
• Solid build quality with a classic metal design.
• Sharpness improves significantly when stopped down to f/2.8 or f/4.
• Compact and lightweight for a fast lens.

Cons

• Slight softness in the corners at wide apertures.
• Chromatic aberration may be noticeable in high-contrast scenes.
• Manual focus can be challenging for those used to autofocus systems.

Verdict

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II is an exquisite lens that stands out for its artistic qualities and charming character. It is perfect for photographers who value the creative potential of manual focus and desire unique bokeh effects in their work. While it may not be the most versatile lens in terms of sharpness across the frame at its widest aperture, the benefits it provides in rendering and depth of field make it a remarkable option for those who seek to create compelling, emotive imagery. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for niche applications like portraiture, where its strengths can truly shine.