Looking for a JML 21mm f3.5

[brodiefoster]

Hi everyone. I will properly introduce myself later but for now I am just stopping by to ask if anyone knows where or how I can get a hold of this lens currently? I realise the potential of microscope objectives but for use with amateur arachnology I am looking for something to be more versatile and productive.

I don't mind paying more for this lens (within reason)

Any suggestions?

[Retro]

Regarding your PM brodiefoster:

I was just wondering about that EDNALITE 4.5X Optical Lens you purchased. How does this lens perform? Is it similar to what you thought the JML 21mm would be?

Haven't yet acquired a DSLR so all I can do is hold the lenses in front of a P&S camera. Not very good for critical comparisons. It is a very well made, bright, sharp optic with a generous mounting flange but much lower magnifying power and longer (~3") working distance. At $4.50 US it is a great value, giving one the option of a few extra purchases to warrant the shipping cost.

It is not however a JML 21mm f:3.5

Happy hunting,
Jim

[Bob^3]

I guess I should caution folks about purchasing such unknown lenses in hope of finding one suitable for macro photography. Both before and after the JML lens, I have bought over fifteen similarly promising looking lenses on eBay (made by JML and other manufacturer). To date, none of them have approached the JML 21/3.5 in resolution, usable magnification range, large image circle and lack of chromatic aberration. So it does appear that this $10 lens was indeed something of a fluke, which may not be easily repeated. The good news is that I have not, and will not, pay over $50 on any such lens (most have been under $15).

I suspect other members have had similar experiences. Perhaps we should start a thread to list the failed experimental lenses we have bought and tested to prevent members from wasting time and money?

Bob

[brodiefoster]

Thanks guys and sorry for the late response.

I guess the JML 21mm f3.5 is long gone now, I will have to start looking into some other options. I may get that Ednalite 4.5X to use seeing as Winter is almost over but I will continue looking into more lenses.

Perhaps we should start a thread to list the failed experimental lenses we have bought and tested to prevent members from wasting time and money?
Bob

That is an excellent idea. It would save newbies like me a lot of time and money

[kds315*]

I have several JML 21mm left and would make a nice M42 holder for it if I can get 10 orders for it. Send email to postmaster AT macrolenses.de if interested.