C.F. Usner Massive Brass Petzval Radial Drive Lens 14" Focus 8x10 Super Bokeh

Description

Here is a very rare massive brass lens made by C.F. Usner. Charles F. Usner was a highly regarded lens maker who made lenses for companies such as C.C. Harrison and Holmes, Booth and Hayden. This lens was made under his own C.F. Usner New York label. The lens has a focal length of approx. 14" to 15". The glass diameter is approx 3.9 inches so that would give an f stop rating of approx f3.6 to f3.7 which sounds about accurate. It throws an excellent bright image. The lens has a height of approx 7 3/4". The glass is in excellent shape and is clean and clear showing only light wear for a lens of this size and age. The radial drive is present but I did not want to test it out as there was a little play to it and with the lens being so massive it would probably be best just to focus it using the camera. It is missing one of the four screws that holds the knob in place. The lens is slotted for waterhouse stops but does not come any. The lens throws a massive image and would be an excellent wet plate lens or if your looking for the famous petzval bokeh effect this is a great portrait lens as it can cover 8x10.
The lens would need a sturdy camera to support it as it weighs 6lb 4oz. It does not have a flange. The rear thread that would accept a flange is approx 4 3/4". The lens is missing the front lenshood attachment in the front. A great lens for the serious photographer as petzval lenses of this size are almost impossible to find. This is a really nice one and all ready for mounting and use. Please look at the pictures above. Check out my other auctions for many more brass lenses and antique large format cameras. I can combine shipping on multiple purchases. Buyer pays shipping and the shipping quote includes insurance.