I'm upgrading the lens on my Meopta. Can afford either a Rodenstock Rodagon 50mm f2.8 or a Schneider Componon-S 50mm. Both about the same price second-hand. Which would you choose and why?
Both are excellent. The Componon-S is marginally sharper in the corners at f8-11. The Rodagon is arguably better built. I'd go Componon-S if sharpness is the priority.
Honestly at 8x10 you will not see a difference between a clean Rodagon and a clean Componon-S. Condition matters far more than brand at this age — check for haze by shining a torch through it before buying. Bay 3 has the Componon-S 50/2.8 if you want to try before you buy.