Carl Zeiss Jena wide-angle lens (35mm, f/2.4–2.8) with retrofocal design for SLR cameras; signature optic of Eastern Bloc film production, 1960s–1980s.
Technical Details
The Flektogon 35 existed in several versions: the early f/2.8 variant (1961-1975) with a preset aperture, the later f/2.4 version (1965-1990) with a semi-automatic aperture, and the final f/2.8 MC version with multi-coating. Its retrofocus design allowed for flange-distance compliant mounting on single-lens reflex cameras despite its short focal length. The lens weighed 280-320g depending on the mount and featured a 58mm filter thread. Its minimum focusing distance was 19cm, which was exceptionally close for its time.
History & Development
Carl Zeiss Jena developed the first Flektogon 35 in 1961 under the direction of Erhard Glatzel as a response to Western wide-angle designs like the Zeiss Distagon. Mass production began in 1962 for cameras in the Pentacon series. The more light-sensitive f/2.4 version followed in 1965 and was produced until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. After reunification, Carl Zeiss ceased production as the lens line was not integrated into the new product range.
Practical Use in Film
Eastern European film productions extensively used the Flektogon 35 for landscape and architectural shots. DEFA utilized it in films like "The Legend of Paul and Paula" (1973) for wide-angle city views. The lens is characterized by high sharpness extending to the image corners and moderate distortion, but it is prone to flares when shooting into the light. Its retrofocus design produces a characteristic bokeh rendering with a slight nervousness in out-of-focus areas.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike the West German Zeiss Distagon 35mm, the Flektogon has a different lens arrangement with fewer elements, leading to a different rendering. Modern alternatives like the Zeiss Distagon T* 35mm f/2 or Sigma Art 35mm f/1.4 offer higher light sensitivity and better coatings, but they do not achieve the specific image characteristics of the Flektogon. Collectors today particularly value the MC versions due to their rarity and the distinctive East German image look.