Rodenstock's APO medium format enlarging lens — the finest Rodagon for 6x6 printing.
Rodenstock is one of Germany's leading precision optics manufacturers, and the Apo-Rodagon-N represents the apex of their enlarging lens range. Apo denotes apochromatic correction to minimise chromatic aberration across the full spectrum; the N generation introduced improved anti-reflection coatings. Designed for professional colour laboratories printing from 6×6cm and 6×7cm medium format negatives.
80mm focal length, f/4 maximum aperture, apochromatic multi-coated formula, M39 thread mount, nine-element optical design.
The Apo-Rodagon-N is widely regarded as the benchmark for 80mm enlarging lenses, surpassing the standard Rodagon in colour accuracy and edge sharpness at large print sizes. The f/4 aperture (one stop faster than the standard Rodagon 80mm f/5.6) aids ease of focusing. Competing lenses at this level are the Schneider Apo-Componon-HM and Nikon Apo-EL Nikkor.
Inspect all elements carefully — premium lenses warrant close inspection for haze or coating delamination. Aperture blades should be perfectly clean. Confirm M39 thread condition. The Apo-Rodagon-N commands a significant price premium; verify authenticity of the Apo and N markings.