Bell & Howell 2 Inch 16mm f/1.2 Projection Lens Cinema Projector Vintage

Bell & Howell 2 Inch 16mm f/1.2 Projection Lens Cinema Projector Vintage

This Bell & Howell 2-inch (approximately 50mm) f/1.2 projection lens is a fast-aperture optic designed for 16mm film projectors. The f/1.2 maximum aperture makes it well-suited for bright, high-contrast projection even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The lens body is constructed of machined aluminum with a ribbed focus barrel and engraved specification markings reading "16MM 2 INCH f/1.2" on the lower barrel.

Specifications & What's Included

• Brand: Bell & Howell
• Focal length: 2 inches (approximately 50mm)
• Maximum aperture: f/1.2
• Film format: 16mm
• Body construction: Machined aluminum barrel with ribbed focus grip and black front/rear housings
• Front element: Large-diameter clear glass with visible blue anti-reflection coating
• Rear element: Smaller rear glass element in black mount housing
• Engraved markings: "16MM 2 INCH f/1.2" on barrel; "Bell & Howell" on base ring
• Lens only — no caps, case, or mounting hardware included

Applications

Bell & Howell was one of the dominant American manufacturers of 16mm film projectors from the 1920s through the 1980s, supplying equipment to schools, government agencies, the military, and commercial theaters. This 2-inch f/1.2 projection lens was used with 16mm film projectors to cast a bright, sharp image onto a screen — the fast f/1.2 aperture was particularly valuable in auditoriums or classrooms where high light output was needed. Today, 16mm projection lenses like this are sought by collectors maintaining vintage Bell & Howell projectors, filmmakers working with 16mm film, and those building or restoring classic projection setups. The lens mount style is compatible with Bell & Howell 16mm projector models that accept a standard screw-mount or push-fit projection lens of this barrel diameter.