Carl Zeiss Pro-Tessar 85mm f/4 – DKL Mount – Edge Separation – Rare Telephoto

Description:

Carl Zeiss Pro-Tessar 85mm f/4 lens for DKL mount (Contaflex-compatible), showing edge separation in the front element—visible as a rainbow-like bubble effect. This is a known issue with early Zeiss optical cement and common among Pro-Tessar lenses. Separation is cosmetic and typically does not affect central image sharpness, but may reduce contrast or cause flare in certain lighting.

The lens is otherwise in good cosmetic condition. Focus ring is smooth, mount is clean, and aperture is controlled via the camera body (as designed). No fungus or haze beyond the noted separation. Sold as-is for collectors, restoration, or display.

Key Specs:

• Focal Length: 85mm
• Aperture: f/4 (controlled via camera body)
• Mount: DKL (Deckel bayonet, Zeiss Ikon Contaflex series)
• Optical Design: 8 elements
• Filter Size: 60mm
• Construction: Metal body, Zeiss Ikon build quality
• Compatibility: Contaflex III, IV, Rapid, Super B, Super BC

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Collector Notes:

The Pro-Tessar series was Zeiss Ikon’s solution for interchangeable optics on leaf-shutter SLRs. These lenses mount in place of the front cell of the standard Tessar, leveraging the camera’s built-in shutter and diaphragm. The 85mm f/4 is one of the rarer focal lengths and prized for its compact telephoto reach. Edge separation is common in this series due to aging optical cement.