History: The lens is engraved with 'Extra Rapid Portrait - Series 3B.'

Bausch & Lomb was one of the largest optical companies in the USA back then, and still today.

The focal lenght is about 300mm (or 12") and the open aperture is around F3.6. It covers 8x10 with a distinctive petzval character in the outer region.

This is a really still quite light and compact design for a 12" petzval. It also offers some similarities with the famous Dallmeyer B series, featuring the same layout in the rear as the Dallmeyer lenses. Practically you have the same soft focus capabilities here, by turning the rearmost element. There are even similar marks in the back which reminds one of the Dallmeyer marks.


Condition: This brass beauty comes in a great condition. The brass looks nice and shows only minimal wear, the laquere was refreshed and will protect the lens for the next 150 years of service. The glass is in good condition also, there are some minor cleaning marks and specs here and there, but that wont affect image quality in the slightest. There is no haze, fungus or anything that would affect the image quality.


It comes with a flange and is ready to shoot!



height: 19cm
width: 11cm
weight: 2000gr

Insured and tracked shipping cost:

Germany - 10 eur
EU* - 30 eur
Worldwide - 80 eur

*(the site offers only 2 shipping variations, DE and worldwide. buyers from EU please either contact me beforehand for a reduced EU cost, or after buying so i can send a refund over the difference)

Importent Note: This item comes from my private collection and is around 100 years old (antique). I try my best to describe all the faults and major damage which are relevant for the function of this item. But the actuall item can show signs of wear and also some cosmetic blemishes/damage which is not described in the auction text! When buying this item the buyer agrees to this terms.