Bausch & Lomb Metrogon 6″ (154.45mm) f/6.3 Aerial Reconnaissance Lens

The Bausch & Lomb Metrogon is a titan of mid-century cartography and aerial reconnaissance, famously derived from the ultra-wide Zeiss Topogon design. Originally engineered for the Fairchild 9×9 mapping cameras, this lens was designed to capture vast expanses of terrain with minimal distortion from high altitudes. Today, it represents a “functional history” prize for large-format photographers; its massive image circle not only covers 8×10 inch film but provides room for movements, offering a unique, clinical sharpness that is highly prized for architectural and landscape work. The Technicals (The “Specs”) Model: Bausch & Lomb Optical Co. Metrogon (U.S. Pat 2,032,492). Focal Length: 154.45mm (6 inch). Maximum Aperture: f/6.3. Coverage: Designed for 9×9″ aerial film; provides full coverage for 8×10″ large format. Optical Condition: Glass is clean and clear. Features some minor cleaning marks on the surface, typical for a lens of this era, which do not affect image quality. Mechanicals: The integrated aerial shutter mechanism has been tested and successfully opens and shuts. Conversion Potential: The front and rear lens cells can be unscrewed from the original Fairchild housing, making this an ideal candidate for rehousing into a modern shutter or a custom large-format mount. Shipping: Professionally packed and shipped from the Netherlands. Keywords: Bausch & Lomb, Metrogon, Aerial Lens, 8×10 large format, Fairchild camera, vintage glass, wide angle lens. Like this:Like Loading… Related