That is a 'Scope lens for film use, made by Kowa. It's called the Vidoscope 16, hence your mix-up with 'video'
Claus.
-------------------- "Why are there shots of deserts in a scene that's supposed to take place in Belgium during the winter?" (Review of 'Battle of the Bulge'.)
I don't know how well that would do with an 8mm projector, but for 16mm that should suit you fine (I have similar right now.) Do a search on the forum to see posts about using these types of anamorphs on Super-8 machines.
Claus.
-------------------- "Why are there shots of deserts in a scene that's supposed to take place in Belgium during the winter?" (Review of 'Battle of the Bulge'.)
Posts: 791
From: Northridge, CA USA
Registered: Jun 2003
posted December 08, 2009 02:19 PM
You should be aware that the back "neck" of these lenses is smaller than the 16C/F lens. In fact it matches the back of the Bolex 1.5x 16mm lens and would fit in the Bolex holder for photography.
Since it's back element is smaller, you probably wouldn't want to go much below a 2 inch prime lens. I have a couple of these around, but never used them for projection.
The problem with any Anamorphic is quality. That's something you just can't judge on ebay. The biggest problem is the front and back elements go out of alignment. They can be trued back up by a lens repairman if any such person exists anymore. There are two pieces that keep the lens front and back in alignment while you focus and these can be touched up or replaced to get the elements true again.
Buhl modified a number of Sankor 16c lenses by removing them from the Sankor barrel and you were on your own to focus and adjust astigmatism and then lock it with a set-screw. Good for a permanent set-up, not if you need to adjust distance when you set-up your projector and screen.
The Kowa 16H (8Z) has the large (52mm) rear barrel and are generally in good condition as to sharpness. But any of these lenses could probably be improved by adjustment by an optical engineer.