Kern Switar 10mm f 1.4 only focuses at extreme macro?

[Jordan Langmore]

I recently purchased a Kern Switar 10mm f1.4 lens, which appears to be in good condition, for use on my Bolex EBM with a c mount adapter.

However, when mounting this lens I encountered a strange problem where it would only focus at extremely close distances and leaves the rest out of focus.

Seems like this lens is not in such great shape after all but wondering if anyone knows a fix?

Thanks for any help!

[Simon Wyss]

Is there an extension ring left on the rear of the lens? That would explain the matter.

[Dom Jaeger]

Assuming you mean 10mm f/1.6 not f/1.4..  

If it only focusses at macro distances, then the lens is sitting too far away from the film plane, so first thing is to check if it is properly screwed all the way in to the adapter and the adapter is properly seating in the camera mount (and of course the right way around, extending in towards the camera and not away from it). 

[Doug Palmer]

Does the focusing ring turn freely all the way like it should ? And callibration...numbers tally with short distances ?

[Doug Palmer]

Another thought... presumably your lens isn't one meant for the H8 ?  C-mount but different focus.

 

[David Lozano]

Hi Jordan! I have a 10mm 1.6 switar and this is also happening to me. It focus on extreme close up and not infinity. Did you manage to solve it?

[Ben Marshall]

Silly check: check that you are using the SBM>C-mount the correct way round (inwards, not outwards).