Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon 35mm 2.4

by bollywoodmovie · Published January 15, 2014 · Updated June 10, 2020

The Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon 35mm 2.4 is an outstanding vintage lens that is highly appreciated both by photographers and videographers. Its’ image quality, bokeh, very short focusing distance and build quality really set standards. This is the lens that I use the most – by a mile!

The classic Zeiss Flektogon 35 wide angle lens

Following the success of the epic Carl Zeiss Flektogon 35mm 2.8, Zeiss decided to give their 2.8 version an overhaul. This included making the lens faster and using modern coatings. The results were not disappointing. Hands down, the Flektogon 35mm 2.4 is one of my favourite lenses. If I could only use one lens, it would be the Flektogon. Its’ versatility and image quality simply do not stop to amaze me.

The Carl Zeiss Flektogon 35mm f2.4 is truly outstanding lens and is highly sought after. The colours are outstanding and the bokeh is creamy and beautiful. The Flektogon does not only offer outstanding image quality but this lens is also remarkable due to its’ extremely short focusing range of only 19cm. Therefore you can use it for a wide range of photography, be it in for landscapes, portraiture, macro or documentary photography. On top of this, the Flektogon is also mighty compact, making it an ideal companion for your traveling endeavors.

I think this is one of the best M42 lenses ever build by Carl Zeiss Jena. If you have the opportunity to acquire one of these jewels go for it – you won’t regret it! Nonetheless, if you are looking for a wide angle M42 lens and are a bit on a budget you might want to look into the Takumar 28mm.

PROs:

bokeh is exceptional
build quality is excellent
sharp, even when shot wide open
focusing range of only 19cm

CONs:

price (for a mint Flektogon f2.4 lens you will have to pay approximately 200 Euros)

Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon 35mm 2.4 Versions

The 35mm Flektogon was manufactured both in M42 and Praktica B mount (branded as Prakticar 2,4/35 MC Carl Zeiss Jena). The older version had an aperture of f2.8 while the newer versions have an aperture of f2.4. The newer versions have a black finish. Some newer lenses use the branding “electric” meaning that they have three electric connectors at the back of the lens.
The 35mm f2.4 Flektogon lenses are either marked “MC” (in red or white) or “multi coating”. All these lenses use the same coating. Lenses with a red branding tend to be more expensive.

Mounts available:
- M42 / Pentax Mount
- Praktica B mount (branded as Prakticar 2,4/35 MC Carl Zeiss Jena)
Made in east Germany
Lens elements: 6
minimum focusing distance: 19cm
Filter mount: M49 x 0.75
Multi Coating: Yes