Meyer-Optik's Trioplan 100mm f/2.8 — a cult M42 triplet telephoto famed for soap-bubble bokeh.
The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 100mm f/2.8 is a German short-telephoto prime whose triplet design dates from the mid-20th century, produced in M42 mount among others. Made by Meyer-Optik of Gorlitz, it is one of the most famous vintage lenses for its bokeh and has been revived in modern production.
This is a manual-focus M42 screw-mount lens with a 100mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, based on a simple three-element triplet formula. Focus and aperture are set by hand on the barrel, with early versions using a preset aperture. It is an all-metal short telephoto. Detailed figures are not asserted here beyond the verified focal length and aperture.
The Trioplan is renowned for its bubble bokeh, rendering out-of-focus highlights as crisp, soap-bubble-edged circles that make backgrounds sparkle, a signature look that gave it cult status. The simple triplet design produces this dramatic effect against detailed backgrounds, making it a specialist portrait and creative lens chosen for its character.
Original vintage Trioplans are scarce and highly valued for the bubble-bokeh look, commanding strong prices. Inspect the elements for haze, fungus, scratches and separation, confirm the aperture and any preset ring work, and check focus feel over the longer travel. Verify the M42 mount. An M42 adapter makes it a prized character lens on mirrorless.