The Biggest Telephoto Lens Which is Zeiss Apo Sonnar T* 1700 mm F4

         Numerous huge and even bulky camera lenses had been created. But so far, none of those creations can beat this “monster lens” that Carl Zeiss created—Zeiss Apo Sonnar T* 1700 mm F4.

         This built-to-order unique lens is designed to be used only a Hasselblad 6x6 medium format camera. It weights 256 KG (564 lbs) and uses unique methods especially made for this camera when handling focusing because of the weight of each glass. Because of its obvious heavy weight and huge size, this lens was tagged as the largest telephoto lens that is used outside military purposes. Although it can be ordered, the price for this gigantic lens is yet to be revealed.

         This is the first time the world can such a magnificent breakthrough in the history of photography. The invention is made possible by world renowned developer Carl Zeiss for people with special needs in the field of photography, more specifically for people with special interest for wildlife. Yes. The lens was mainly for long distance shots like the wildlife.

         At a focal length of 1700mm and a speed of f/4, this project even challenged the manufacture of the optical glass. The delicate, special glass types required for this unique design had never been cast before in such huge dimensions. Some of the resulting lens blanks weighed more than 25 kg (55 lbs.) and were valued more than you can imagine. Turning these blanks into the finished lens elements added even more to their value.

         The design of the ZEISS Apo Sonnar T* 4/1700 required new lens assembly techniques and quality assurance methods that are never been applied in creating photo lens even by Zeiss despite hi s very high standards.

         There is difficulty in creating this lens, but Zeiss accepted the challenge which resulted to the creation of Carl Zeiss Apo Sonnar T* 4/1700 lens. It boasts of 15 optical elements in 13 groups. It is the largest telephoto lens ever produced for civilian photographic purposes in the whole world and a existing testament to the precision design and manufacturing capabilities at Carl Zeiss.