Kaesemann polarizers: hype or reality??

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I always thought that the Kaesemann filters were just useful in extreme climates because they are sealed. Recently, a friend said they were superior when used with APO and telephoto lenses. Is this correct?? If so, are the Kaesemann polarizers (presume ciricular always) superior to the new regular MRC (multi-resistant coated) circular polarizers?? Thanks...

-- Albert Knapp MD (albertknappmd@mac.com), March 03, 2002

Answers

I have used just about every type of Polarizer out there at one time or another, and I can't say I have noticed much difference in any of them, except maybe a slightly more nuetral color reproduction with the Heliopan polarizers over the Hoyas, Vivitars, Tiffens and others. I think the Heliopan's standard coated polarizers are the best made ones on the market,(and a bargain at that) and I like that they are calibrated with numbers on the rim and use brass rings to make screwing them on and off easy. I have had two Tiffen Polarizers delaminate when they were only a couple of years old, and do not recommend them anymore. By the way, to me multicoating polarizers is not worth the added cost, as I never shoot with one into the sun (where it may have a small advantage)as the polarizer effect is nil under those circumstances anyway. Circular polarizers may actually have a bit less power than the regular linear ones as far as the polarizing affect. I think some people equate more expensive with better when it is often not the case.

-- Andrew Schank (aschank@flash.net), March 03, 2002.

As someone once said, you don't always get what you pay for but you never get what you don't pay for.

-- Bud (budcook@attglobal.net), March 03, 2002.

Albert, you were correct in your thinking that Kaesemann polarizers were meant to withstand tropical conditions. We're talking weeks and months in jungles and rainforests, not day-tripping out of an airconditioned hotel in Miami or Changmai. Save your money.

-- Jay (infinitydt@aol.com), March 03, 2002.

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