An optical fiber preform comprises a primary preform that includes at least one inner cladding and a central core deposited inside a fluorine doped silica tube. The fluorine doped silica tube has a cross section area that is no more than about 15 percent smaller than the cross section area of the primary preform. The optical fiber preform has a large capacity, may be manufactured at reduced cost, and may be drawn to produce an optical fiber having reduced transmission losses.