This Old Lens: Takumar 50mm f/1.4 M42 Screw Mount

Preface

Writing this post is not the best idea for me. Why? I do not have this lens. Samples are from a prior M42 screw mount bender a few years ago.

Pentax was the first SLR system I learned on many, many years ago by my father. I still have a couple of Pentax SLRs to this day (ME Super and free to me gifted SF10). I still have a couple of 50mm K Mount lenses (AF and MF) but I am still tempted to purchase this lens again. It is an excellent lens.

As previously stated with these posts there will be no spoilers as I will like all of these lenses.

Asking Price

Depending on the condition and what else is included like cases and such these seem to run between $50 and $100.

Value

A fair price for a great lens. Granted there are many great legacy 50mm lenses out there. This is yet another.

Why I (Had) Bought It

Pentax makes great lenses. Not as heralded as some more expensive options it easily holds its own against all comers in my opinion. Plus a f/1.4 for such a small sum is difficult to resist.

Image Quality

Takumar makes an impressive lens. Very sturdy build and a good looking lens.

• Flare
  • Have not witnessed any flare with this lens.
• Sharpness
  • Very sharp with film and digital.
• Colors
  • I really like the colors this lens produces.
• Bokeh
  • Another win. Not only in the amount of bokeh available but in the quality. No squirrely distractions like some other lenses. Just creamy backgrounds and foregrounds.

Samples With Film (No samples here.)

With Digital

Conclusion

Another great 50mm lens. You could spend more for modern mirrorless MF lens but I prefer this one. If you enjoy shooting on film and digital this lens is a great option.

-ELW