Goerz 9 1/2 in. (241mm) f/9 Apochromat Red Dot Artar (42MT) Barrel Lens for 4x5 Review

The Goerz 9.5-inch (241mm) f/9 Red Dot Artar is a classic large-format barrel lens designed for 4x5 cameras. As an apochromat, it was built to deliver sharp, color-corrected images with minimal chromatic aberration, making it well-suited for portrait and product photography where detail and tonal accuracy matter. The 42MT designation refers to its thread size for mounting accessories.

This particular unit is sold used in bargain condition without a retaining ring, meaning you'll need to source that separately or use it with a compatible lens board and mounting system. The Red Dot marking indicates this is one of the later, higher-quality iterations of the Artar line, which has long been respected in the large-format community. At 241mm, it sits in the mild telephoto range for 4x5, offering a flattering perspective for portraiture while still manageable on most field or studio cameras.

The used market price of $193 reflects its bargain condition and missing hardware. For photographers already invested in large-format shooting with the knowledge and accessories to mount a barrel lens, this can be a cost-effective way to add a well-regarded optic to the kit.