Schneider APO-Symmar 135mm f/5.6

Schneider Apo-Symmar 135mm f/5.6 is the slightly-wide-of-normal apochromatic LF plasmat — equivalent to roughly 40mm on 35mm when used on 4×5. The 135mm focal length is a popular alternative to the 150mm true-normal for photographers who prefer a touch more inclusive framing.

Key features

• Mount: Copal 0 shutter (1s to 1/500, X-sync at all speeds)
• Focal length: 135mm
• Maximum aperture: f/5.6
• Image circle: ~210mm at f/22 — covers 4×5 with generous movements; covers 5×7 tightly
• Optical formula: 6-element/4-group plasmat with apochromatic correction
• Multi-coating standard

Use case + rendering

The 135 Apo-Symmar is among the most-recommended modern 4×5 normals — slightly wider than the 150, sharper than older Symmar designs, with apochromatic color correction for color work. Used examples are common; pricing reflects its popularity.

Compatible cameras

• Toyo 45A / Toyo 45AII / Toyo 45G
• Cambo SC / Cambo Calumet 45NX
• Graflex Crown Graphic / Graflex Speed Graphic / Graflex Super Graphic

Related lenses

• Schneider Apo-Symmar 120mm f/5.6 — wider sibling
• Schneider Apo-Symmar 150mm f/5.6 — true normal
• Schneider Symmar 135mm f/5.6 — original Symmar predecessor