Schneider Xenotar 80mm f/2.8

Schneider Xenotar 80mm f/2.8 is the fast f/2.8 normal lens for medium-format LF cameras — covering 6×6 format only (image circle ~90mm). Originally designed for Rollei and similar TLR-class medium-format cameras, the Xenotar has been adopted by some 4×5 photographers for soft-focus or limited-format work.

Key features

• Mount: Copal 0 shutter (1s to 1/500, X-sync at all speeds)
• Focal length: 80mm
• Maximum aperture: f/2.8 (faster than typical LF normals)
• Image circle: ~90mm at f/22 — covers 6×6 medium format only; does not cover 4×5
• Optical formula: 5-element/4-group double-Gauss
• Single-coated on older production; multi-coated on later

Use case + rendering

The 80 Xenotar is NOT a 4×5 lens — it's a medium-format optic that ended up cataloged in LF databases due to its Copal 0 shutter mount. Use cases on view cameras include 6×6 roll-film backs (Toyo 6×9, Linhof 6×7) where the 90mm IC adequately covers smaller film backs.

The classical Rollei TLR Xenotar is the same optical formula in a fixed-mount Rolleiflex configuration — most photographers encounter the Xenotar there rather than as an LF lens.

Compatible cameras

• 4×5 cameras with 6×6 or 6×9 roll-film backs only — does not cover full 4×5
• Medium-format roll-film LF setups via Toyo or Linhof rollfilm holders

Related lenses

• Schneider Xenotar 100mm f/2.8 — longer Xenotar sibling (6×7 coverage)
• Schneider Xenar 100mm f/3.5 — slower budget alternative for similar coverage class