Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II is a classic lens that revives the renowned Biotar design, offering photographers a blend of vintage charm and modern performance. Specifically designed for the Nikon F mount, this lens is a fascinating option for those seeking a unique perspective combined with a fast aperture.

Build Quality and Design

From the first touch, the lens exudes a robust feel, characteristic of the classic German craftsmanship. With a metal body and smooth focusing rings, it’s a pleasure to handle. The lens also features a distinctive design with a unique bokeh that contributes to its artistic rendering of subjects. Its compact size makes it highly portable, perfect for street photography or portraits.

Optical Performance

At f/1.5, the Biotar excels in low-light conditions, providing creamy bokeh that beautifully isolates the subject from the background. The images produced are sharp, especially when stopped down slightly. However, at its widest aperture, there can be some softness in the corners, which is typical for many fast lenses. The color rendition is fantastic, with vibrant tones that pop, ideal for those emphasizing rich color palettes.

Distortion and Aberration

The lens does exhibit some barrel distortion, particularly noticeable at wider apertures. However, this can oftentimes add to the character of the image, which some photographers might find appealing. Chromatic aberration is minimal, but some purple fringing may appear in high-contrast situations. Overall, the optical flaws are largely overshadowed by the lens's strengths.

Usability and Compatibility

Mounting the Biotar on a Nikon F body is straightforward; however, since it is a manual focus lens, it may not suit everyone, especially if you are accustomed to autofocus. The focus ring has a long throw, allowing for precise adjustments, which is a boon for portrait and macro shooters. That said, it requires a bit of patience and practice to master manual focusing, especially in dynamic shooting environments.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent low-light performance with a fast f/1.5 aperture.
• Beautiful bokeh and subject isolation.
• Artful rendering with great color reproduction.
• Robust and weather-sealed construction.

Cons

• Some softness at the corners when shot wide open.
• Manual focus might be challenging for some users.
• Barrel distortion present, though can add character.

Verdict

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II is an outstanding choice for photographers who appreciate the art of manual photography and the aesthetic qualities of vintage lenses. While it may have some quirks typical of classic designs, the unique rendering and build quality more than make up for these minor shortcomings. If you are looking to add a unique lens to your Nikon F kit that champions artistic expression, this lens deserves a place in your bag.