Schneider's classic large format lens — the Symmar 150mm for 4x5 with convertible design.
The Schneider Symmar 150mm f/5.6 is the standard normal lens in Schneider's celebrated Symmar line for 4x5-inch large format photography. The Symmar design is a convertible lens — the front group can be removed to use the rear group alone as a longer focal length (approximately 265mm at a narrower aperture), providing two lenses in one.
The lens provides 150mm at f/5.6 in primary configuration (all elements), with a convertible rear group providing approximately 265mm at f/12 when the front group is removed. Schneider multi-coating, typically in a Compur or Copal shutter, and coverage suited to 4x5-inch and some 5x7-inch formats with movements.
The convertible Symmar's dual-focal-length capability was a significant practical advantage for large format photographers who wanted two usable focal lengths from a single lens. The 150/265mm combination covers normal and moderate telephoto perspectives. The Symmar was Schneider's workhorse large format normal lens for decades.
Test shutter in both Symmar and convertible (rear group only) configurations. Inspect all elements in both configurations. Verify coverage at both focal lengths on the ground glass. Check shutter blade operation. Both focal lengths should be evaluated if convertible use is intended.