What do you guys think of the CULT? 5 elements BAD, 6 elements GOOD? 1:29: Meet the lenses (5 Element) 1:54: Meet the lenses (6 Element) CULT 2:22: How to identify a 5 and 6 element 3:52: Camera Test 6:17: Final Thoughts
@Ali Avci That's a good idea. I'll compile them up and post them in a google link in a bit. Probably next week sometime. Swamped with final week on a show I'm on before we break for the holidays.
@@MarkHoltze Hi Mark! After watching this video a bunch of times, I wanted one so much! I ended up with both versions too. I managed to buy the 5 elements in brand new condition including the case for a bargain. Then, I saw a local listing for a Pentax Spotmatic F with lenses less than 100 EUR. Because of your video, I eagle-eyed the photos and saw the "4" in the 135mm f2.5! It's a 135mm 2.5 6-element! The ad didn't last 30 minutes online (I bought it). To my surprise, it also came with an SMC Takumar 35mm f2 and an SMC Takumar 55mm 1.8. Score! I'm going to test both side-by-side and maybe sell one (or keep both?). Hmmm but one Spotmatic really has to go as now I have two! The original Spotty and the F. Both in great condition. Thank you for your awesome Takumar videos! It really doesn't help with my GAS. Though I sold all AF lenses that I have for my Sony system.
Thanks for posting this video! I have the 6 element version, which I took on a photo shoot to an old village in Hong Kong. The sharpness, contrast and fall-off to smooth background and foreground blur captured beautifully the textures of buildings and landscape. It wildly exceded my expectations.
That opening shot 😵😵 Let be honest this wasn’t about wanting to do a comparison, you just wanted to join a cult!! Genuinely a phenomenal video dude, how you manage to squeeze so Much detail into these, whilst still crafting a clear story arch is incredible. As ever, just awesome dude.
Hand held Hitchcock vertigo zoom lol. I was obsessed with those back in my video HI 8 days, it was easy to match because of the electric zoom...loved that look and thought ya, this could be cult like ;). Thanks mate, I find these to be more fun if you can somehow start in one place, go somewhere (both physically and in terms of content) and bring it all the way back around to where you started. I find the actual process of lens testing to be super fun, mostly because I'm not exactly sure what results i'm going to get and they allow me to study them in ways I wouldn't normally do if I was just out shooting random things for fun. Learning the nuances of how a lens performs is so useful in terms of how you compose your shots so I really should just do this with every lens. I get a new lens, I put it on my camera and I shoot just everything with it for like a month to see how it performs and how I like it. A big reason why I love primes so much is you really get a sense of the focal length and what works/doesn't work for it. Zooms you can just frame in a bit or out a bit and land your shot, prime you have to physically move your body and for some reason that just resonates with me. This coming from a guy who's shot nothing but zooms almost my whole career, maybe it's just a phase ;) Anyway thanks for the comment mate!
Excellent review. I don’t understand how bigger TH-camrs even get product when yours on a lens my age is 1000x more informative and entertaining. Thank you.
Thanks mate! I’m not sure, I suspect my stuff is pretty niche so it doesn’t get the masses attention the same way and I think product requires eyeballs. All good with me, I pick my video topics based on what is inspiring me, having to review something out of obligation might remove some of that creative freedom I currently have. I am enjoying the process of figuring out how to shoot them in somewhat interesting ways :)
Nice breakdown Mark! I already own a 5 element, and today my 6 element arrived in like new condition. Can't wait to try it out. The 5 element already is such a beast of a lens on Sony Fullframe. Vintage as f*ck, but still sharp enough with good bokeh and color rendition.
Finally a comparison of the 2 epic lenses... as you said one had SUPPOSEDLY better specs but this video proves it. I have the 6 element version, it's in pristine condition.
I was looking up the two as a comparison a while ago to see the difference and couldn’t find any. When I saw the 6 at the show I was like I could totally fill that gap because there must be others out there who are curious. My 6 is in less good shape than my 5 which is perfect (no nicks or scratches)
Really enjoying your reviews. I purchased my first Super Takumar (55/1.8) partly based on your vintage lens insights. I've just ordered the 135mm (6 element of course ;). Can'y wait. Keep up the wonderful work!
Mark Holtze ... love it! Colors, tone, contrast are perfect for my taste. I’ve only had it a few days and I’ve yet to try it for video, but looking forward to giving it a spin at the weekend! Lovely stuff.
The prices have only gotten worse since this video was made, so I finally opted for the 5-element version. I had been holding out for a 6-element at a decent price but got tired of waiting. Plus I scored a 5-element for a smoking deal, it just needs the optics cleaned, which is a piece of cake on the Tak's. That made the choice easy.
This is great! I've got my eyes on a 5 element right now to replace my SMC Pentax M 135/3.5. After seeing this, I feel good about not holding out for a 6 element.
I have the five element and who knows maybe I'll get the six element in the future. Nonetheless, both are wonderful to add to your gear. Thank you so much for posting this comparison video!
I just found your channel and as a long time fan of the M42 mont Takumar lenses, this is quite the goldmine! I never even knew there were two versions of this lens, but I now know I have the best one :-) Great channel, keep it up!
I have the 5 Element version. Mine is in great condition. It, along with my 85/1.9 are two of my most valued Super-Takumar lenses. It's nice and chunky kinda heavy and not a lens I would walk around with. I adds a fair amount of weight to the camera bag. As a side note, I also have a SMC 135/3.5 Takumar. Not as fast but it is smaller and lighter.
Just bought one of these lenses for $50 canadian and picking it up tomorrow, after watching this I cannot wait to try it out.. love watching the the video by the way andill be back to watch more
@@MarkHoltze looking forward to seeing that one as I have been looking at buying one also.. I bought this lense not nowing really what it was, it just sounded like it could be a fun lens to have and use from the specs
I like your videos. You are the only one that has made a legit video about the lens. I just bought a 6 elements for 125 bucks in mint condition....so excited to use it. Thanks for you video
Good price mate, you'll love the lens I don't doubt it. Tryin to show the potential of these things, I honestly think they're the absolute best value i photography these days. Even videography, they're just so good to use. Thanks for watching and your kind words.
I hunted this lens down and because I had no meter I wasn't ready to try it. But I packed it as a back up on a day when many things just refused to go right, including a setup that had a failed circuit board. Not only did I miss the target golden hour but was loosing daylight all-together. Out comes the back-up Spotmatic with some FP4 (What the heck)--- WOW! Thanks Mark.
I am so happy that I found your channel. Recently got the Fujifilm X-T3, switching from DSLR, and am now seriously considering manual lenses with the support for manual focus the camera gives, and after watching your channel vintage lenses looks like a serious option for some great and cheap lenses. After all, for portraits and other like photos, you don't really need auto focus.
Mirrorless are perfect with all vintage lenses too. I can switch bodies in the future and just swap cheap adapters while keeping the lenses the same. I love manuals lenses anyway, connect you more to the craft I find. Depends what you are shooting but people have done it for years before auto focus hasn’t become what it has. Portraits are perfect for being selective on what you want to focus on as well.
Great tutorial, great videos. Thank you for getting me off the wagon. Now I have to get the 6 element version, sharp even in the corners. I have 7 different taks and they are all awesome.
Mine is a 5 element, and i have just bought a Soligor 135mm f3.5 that stomps it! it has 12 black anodized blades!! It perfectly matches my 100mm f4 , also made by Tokina and sold as 'Lentar' 'Porst' Miranda' etc. I have a 28mm aspheric f2.8 LEntar with Preset aperture and 21mm f3.5 ( My grandfathers! ) as well, like a perfectly matched team, with any of my other Tokina 50mms. Would be fun to do some tests with them!
I decided to purchase the 6 element version based on this video. It was one of the cheapest on eBay, but there was very minor fungus marks on the rear element. Having said this, the damage was so minor it was hard to notice in a video showing the lens off. The pics posted that were taken with this lens also looked really nice. Sharp. If it turns out to be a bust then I still have my 3.5 version! LOL!
I have the 6 element version and it's astonishingly sharp wide open. What I noticed though is that the S-M-C Takumar 85mm 1.8 has a bit more contrast wide open than the 135mm and the colors are a bit more interesting as well. But the 135mm beats it with sharpness, clarity and Chromatic aberration. I am more than happy with both of them... and that built quality is wonderful... Thanks for this comparison! Looking forward for more :).
Hi Thomas! I should do a personal test between the two. The 85 and 135 as "best telephoto" kind of thing. I never thought to compare the two, but that's a good idea. I'm honestly happy with both, I think the 6 for me is just that "collector item now" and I did REALLY want to do a side by side to see the difference. It's interesting they switched the models so close together. I have the 135 3.5 as well which is a great lens, but it's another option for comparison. Thanks for your time and incite Thomas.
@@MarkHoltze My impression is that the "bigger brothers" of the 55mm 1.8 and 135mm 3.5 (the 50 1.4 and 135 2.5) have that more IQ I appreciate... More saturated colors and even sharpness... Also more artistic room of course... They also considered them as part of the luxury line... Or something like that... (The 35 2.0, 50 1.4, 85 1.8, 135 2.5, 300 4). Another Takumar I love for it's rendering is the S-M-C 28mm 3.5. 28, 50 and 85 and I am all set... Often also I switch the 85 with the 135. By the way... the 35mm 2.0 is also amazing for portraits, wide open. But only if the focus is close in the center. Lovely rendering... For everything else 35mm, better the 35mm 3.5...
While commenting on your latest video, TH-cam recommends me this video of yours and I end up getting the 6-element off eBay for 150 USD. Will let you know my thoughts once it arrives. Thanks to your tips, I know it’s a 6-element even though the seller doesn’t say so 😄
6 element is good, it will be better long term if you want to re-sell it. 150USD is a good price too. Def let me know your thoughts. It's a great lens.
Finally actual video testing proof to dispell all of the rumours and myths out there regarding these vintage lenses..got the 5 element myself,got it pretty cheap and i use it for portraiture.I prefer the size and weight of the 5 since it's big and heavier than most of my other lenses so i don't think i'll be searching for the 6 element anytime soon.But even the 3.5 version is a great lens..Takumars rule..Let's see a Smc Super Tak 55mm 1.8 vs Smc 50mm 1.4 shoot-out next.Great work btw.
Thanks mate! Ya I hadn’t seen any side by side videos online so I was hoping to fill that gap. I have the 135mm 3.5 that was generously gifted to me by a friend. It’s in rough physical condition but still takes a nice photo. It’s much smaller, I’m gojng to test it out against on of the 2.5’s soon. Prob less of s video and more of a personal test. Might share the results if they’re interesting enough. 3.5 is pretty cheap right now.
I noticed the 5 element lens is a Super Takumar not SMC Takumar. That can make a difference in performance as well, the Super Takumar being and older series but still pretty amazing. Use to be a funny add for SMC Takumar of a lens being used as an ashtray then it being cleaned off and put on a camera showing no loss in quality from numerous smoked being butted out on the front element.
👍Great video, Mark. Love your cinematic approach to a technical subject. Nice rail track scene. Cults demand sacrifices 💀- was that your hidden meaning in the flames shot 😁? I have the (younger?) sibling lens, smc pentax-m 135mm f3.5 - f32, 8 blade iris, full manual, with built in retractable lens hood, k mount, great color rendition, correctable ca, and something I don't recall you mentioning in your vids - an oval gold colored sticker that says "Passed JCII 79 JMDC." I don't see that label any more. I assume it is a QC ok symbol, but that's all. Can you clear up the mystery? Does the sticker affect value?
Thanks Paul! Gosh I’m not even sure about the sticker thing. I need to look into that. The CZ 135 2.8 I almost bought at the camera sale has a retractable hood. I love that idea, so convenient!
Hey Mark, been watching your videos for a while! I think your channel is great. I got bitten by the vintage lens bug a few years back and I enjoy your vintage lens reviews. Keep up with good work! Just subscribed today.
@@MarkHoltze I don't know if I have a favorite, I like all of them. I guess if I had to choose it would be my minolta rokkor x 45mm , and a minolta Celtic 135 F/3.5 because they belonged to my mom and she passed away about 20 years ago. So, they aren't the best lenses but have sentimental value.
I know the feeling, my grandfather’s lenses and camera gear are my favourite. Also what got me into it, mounting the pentacon 50 and boom, completely changed my perspective. I need to test out some Minoltas. Thanks!
there are two versions of the 135mm 2.5 "S-M-C" (not SMC!, there is another Pentax SMC btw). You compared the 6 Element with a Single Coated "Super Takumar" 5 Element, not The S-M-C .
Any help to buy the clearer corner version would be appreciated, as in 6:10... Are any sharp ones also labeled SMC or S-M-C, etc ??? How do we know what we are buying?? Mahalos, -Scotty on Maui.
@@jmoss99 LENS coatings are mostly marketing mate, you can expect more, but in all my testing I'm not seeing much of a difference apart from slightly different flaring magenta vs green. It's a non issue, marketing to sell new lenses. Sorry to disappoint, but just look at the images and draw some of your own conclusions :). A lot of this is splitting hairs. The extra element is used for CA correections, not coatings coatings will impact flares mostly and even that....the differences are so minor it's almost not worth it to show in great detail. Only reason i even compared these two is because the reputation the 6 element has over the SMC and Super Takumar 135's F/2.5. Is that hype worth it? Have a look and see for yourself, draw your own conclusions ;) I try to leave a lot of room for interpretation based on the image samples. I like to this of this more as University where I leave room for interpretation vs holding your hand through it ;)
@@MarkHoltze Huhhh??? -More than one of TH-camrs with Vintage lens tests say that the differences in newer lenses being better than their predecessors... (i.e. - less flare) IS the coatings. So, sometimes, they promote the older Vintage lenses for the Cinematic flare effects... "Wait, What???"
@@bubblerings Coatings impact the flaring yes, they don't impact the CA seen at stated time code which is the foundation of this discussion. I mentioned the multicoating impacts the flaring in these comments, but overcast day, not much flare going on to really signpost the differences. HOW much better is the question, are the differences demonstrated or are they just stated? I almost always shoot with a hood and on a long focal length its' very easy NOT to flare because of the short FOV. Wider lenses have a much harder time. As stated before, the images demonstrate the performance, based on those samples you can deduct your own conclusions.
MY friend ! GREAT JOB ! You need nobody to inspire you ! YOU ALREADY GREAT ! YOUR TH-cam CHANNEL IS GREAT !!! JUST KEEP GOING !!!! BELIEVE IN YOURSELF MORE !
Thank you Mark. I recently purchased the 6 element in mint condition for 179.00. I don't see a ton of difference between it and my Nikon 135 f2.8 AIS or Series E but will give it a nod for build quality.
The 6 Element is superior for all the reasons you stated, but if someone's budget was more restrictive that they had to settle for the 5 element, it would still yield solid results. Excellent review / comparison Mark!
Agreed..the thing is some people try to sell the 135 for a premium price. They won’t mention if it’s a 5 or 6 and if you can’t see by the markings (the 4 on focus ring is only on the 6 for example). The 5 shouldn’t go for as high as the 6, but they’re both cheaper than the Carl Zeiss 135 2.8 that goes for about $250. I was looking at that one before I bought the 6. Zeiss vs tak or tak vs tak.
I have one since the launch of the first canon 5D. It's one of the best lens for the price I ever had. The difference between Canon or Fuji lens is not just about the sharpness or the chromatic aberration, its the color render which is unique. I use it today on my Fuji XT3 or Xpro2 with an M42 adapter.
Colour is a huge thing with lenses. DP’s will pick a lens kit based on it, it’s also why we like to collect like branded stuff. So you have that uniformity captured in camera. You’ve know the value of these bad boys awhile it seems, respect!
Mark Holtze During these days I spent entire nights tracking these lens on eBay Japan or eBay Germany for the russian ones...So I have a small collection of Takumar and some Zuiko also. A lot of indie cinematographer are using old lens.
You got them for peanuts I bet as well. My latest video I discuss adapting these old lenses for traditional DP use. I shoot everything I do with them video wise and a few DP friends I have shoot commercial spots with them, so they’re absolutely insane value for both hobbiests and professionals.
I love the barrel design of these Takumars. I got the Minolta Rokkor MCII series which has hill/valley focus ring's too and is in my opinion super handy because you get more grip even wearing gloves. I got a few Takumar's with this design 35mm and 50mm's and also found a few 135mm 2.5's but with the rubber focus rings Not a fan of rubber but for 15 euro in mint isnt that bad since I wanted to complete my dad's old Pentax ME Super Kit (which had the latest rubber focus ring design) . I never tested it on digital... But man... When i took it out on a summer day for portraits on my A7 and i was really BLOWN away from the results of those 135 2.5's these are amazing! The rubber versions are cheaper but I really think they are worth more... They perform mad crazy. Again really cool video! I love it!
It was hard to tell the 5 element lens had some character to it that I liked especially in the center but the 6 element obviously edge to edge was sharper, if I had to choose probably the 6 element. I love 135 focal length especially for portraits. I have a vintage 3.5 from Canon that’s pretty great but a wider aperture would be awesome.
Ya it is hard to tell, like if not for side by side I prob wouldn’t even have noticed as much. The brick wall test was pretty evident edge to edge but I kind of like out of focus edges sometimes. 2.5 is pretty crazy on a tele...two inches off focus point and it’s already falling apart. Cool for some things for sure. I also love it for portrait work.
Mark Holtze yeah I was just thinking about the five element and using the “flaws” to your advantage or purposefully putting things in the edge for interesting effects. In some ways it might be more beneficial.
It’s another layer to isolate your subject. You can always frame the edges as well and just be focus to them, the Center won’t be be sharp but the edge will. Using depth of field andlittle characteristics like this in filmmaking/composition is so much better to capture in camera. And yes, use “flaws” creatively and you can get some really cool results. I always find working with limitations vs abundance to yield far more compelling stuff.
Thanks you sincerely mate. I’m enjoying producing them and showing off the potential these old “dusty” lenses can do. Thanks for giving them your time!
I bought my 6 element a couple years ago. I paid around $220. They were all around 300 back then so I got a good deal. Might be my best tak lens I own. Taks I own 35f2, 50f1.8, 50f4 macro, 85f1.9, 105f2.8, 135f2.5,. I do want the 100mm macro and the 50mm 1.4... I had the 24mm 3.5. great sharp lens but it's too close to my 35mm and don't think it will ever get used if I get it again.
Ya I saw the 24 3.5 at the last camera sale I was at. It was $180 the same as the 135 6. I have the FD 24 so didn’t need another one, 3.5 not as fast as I wouldn’t like as well. Wondering why it goes for so much, the 35 F2 I got for about $130.
yay great to see another video mate. :-) all those camera bits and bobs makes it feel like Christmas. ;-) it definitly is slightly sharper that 6. im going to try my old 135 i have somewhere. :-)
Takumars are something special, I can’t explain it, it’s just how they feel. I never would have known they existed if I hadn’t seen one first hand and held it. The focus is just butter. Nice quality feel to it, the optics are a total bonus for sure.
Can you review some nikon F mount vintage lenses ? Btw your videos are so necessary in these day and ages cause many photographers including me are into vintage lense markets.
Hi mate, I would be happy to, just need to get my hands on one ;). I rarely see them at these vintage camera sales, I need to do some research on a good one. From what I hear, they are fantastic!
I have both, you will notice great differences when shooting on a Fujifilm GFX. Can you do the super takumar 50 mm 1.4 6 & 5 element comparison There is also another cult following there. Well done video... Thanks
I love your video's! Have you ever looked at the Nikkor 105 2.5? I Got mine from a friend and it was covered in gunk I cleaned it and it was almost like it had never been used. I love the lens and It has a cool story and might have been the lens used for that iconic National Geographic cover (might be a rumor tho) Keep up the good work :) Kind regards Jørgen
Jørgen Bjørn It's not a rumor; that is definitely the lens Steve McCurry used to make the iconic "Afghan Girl" photo. At any rate, it's a fabulous lens. I'll never part with mine and probably even prefer it to the AF 135/2 D.C. Nikkor.
You pay a little more from dealers, but they come in prestine optical condition so it’s worth it to me. Opening up a lens terrifies me I’ll break it. For vintage I use the Sony A7Sii. The c100m2 as well, I have the 6Dii but don’t really use vintage on it. Mirrorless are a much better platform for adapted lenses I tbink just because of all the extras help they offer. Focusing etc. Also that flange distance is a problem on dslr’s woh some lenses. You?
Great video Mark! I've got the 5 element which I'm pretty happy with. I haven't owned a bad Tak yet! ;) (Didn't know you had a 6D Mark ii) I love my 6D2!!!!
@@MarkHoltze the same can be said for the 50mm f/1.4, 7 and 8 element lenses too. I have both and can't see much difference. I give the 8 element a slight edge though with sharpness and rendering/contrast when pixel peepin'. My 6D2 is my main FF shooter for my modern kit. I ended up buying a Pentax K1 a couple months ago for my dedicated body to shoot all my vintage glass on from now on. The sensor and dynamic range in the K1 is astonishing! Plus it has IBIS. (best investment I've made in a long time). Happy shooting! ;)
Definitely, since I use these for video mostly even that image quality difference (as small as it is) doesn't make much difference. Even at 4K it's still nowhere near the full resolution of some camera stills. The 6DII was just me wanting a still for my Canon glass, since I'm invested in it for so long I just wanted something I didn't have to adapt and not spend too much on. I'm a full frame guy as well so the 6DII at it's price point made sense.
Mark I have the 135 mm 3.5 Pentax pk as well as the Pentax 150 mm 3.5 pk mount as well as the Takamur 135 3.5 m42 mount . I use the Pentax verison as it has they have the built in lens hoods i have found the lens excllent manuel focus lenses not as fast as your lens but the Pentax lenses are much smaller and lighter . I use them when i want to isolite a subjet and get good bokeh when used wide open .
I have the 135 takumar 3.5 as well. Great lens actually, super affordable and honestly at 135mm 3.5 is fine. 2.5 with some distance is almost too soft a background. The built in lens hood on PK is so handy! It’s a great focal length.
I suppose I'm a member of the cult by virtue of owning the sixer. But I tend to agree with your summation- both are awesome lenses for most practical purposes. Thanks for the comparison!
I totally bought it over the CZ 135 F2.8 because of the “cult”, on top of really wanting to do a comprehensive side by side. Still happy I did, the 5 is mint physically, the 6 is a little more battle damaged on the physical lens so given I’ve fallen for these SMC’s I don’t mind having a few as collectors items. Funny enough I never collected anything my whole life.
First of all, your vintage photographic stuff collection makes me jealous ;-) Now, on the more serious note, I do have Olympus OM 135mm f3,5 which suffers even more on CA wide open than that 5 element Pentax, but on the other hand, it's sharp corner to corner, has beautiful bokeh despite being only f3,5, and had cost me only US $30 a couple of years ago. Additionally, recently I bought Pentacon 135mm f2,8, mainly for swirly effect when shooting portraits for the same money. Now that being said, I guess I overpaid it course only later I realised it has too much dust inside. Not a problem I couldn't solve, I can open it and clean myself, if I buy the tools for that endeavour :-) Now given I already have those two 135's, personally, only if I would need perfectly sharp one without any CA, I'd go straight to 6 element Pentax. Cheers...
I need look into opening the lens. Scared to, but I hear it’s not that bad. A lot of these dealers do it to grease the focus etc. The nice thing about telephoto is that you already can get a nice blurred background if you have good separation from subject. 3.5 would be fine in most cases. I think the 2.5 against the train tracks was almost too much. Super cool image but the background was a vanilla milkshake. By 3.5 it started to come together nice. I love pentacon lenses by the way. They’re great value for the $$$
Excellent video on these lovely lenses Mark. I have been shooting with the 6 element version lately and find it is an outstanding bargain. It is sharp, even wide open, with a little help in Capture One Pro that is. Love the bokeh, soft and creamy. It is a bargain of a lens.
Your vine is excellent and eliminates many doubts, now I have to look for the 6 elements version. I have the 5 elements (43801, 30 next to the Infinite and an R between 8 and 6) in 2.5 has chromatic aberration, in 3.5 little, well beyond, but in Lightroom, you can see the difference with my Rolleinar MC 2.8 135mm, which I believe insurmountable, for lenses of that time. If you have an opportunity, try it. Thanks for such a good video.
Thank Roberto! I have the 135 3.5 as well I should do some tests with. It’s been so cold that my lens reviews have been sort of on hold for the fact my battery will die in mins and I’m making disgruntled noises every second I’m outside I don’t have to be lol. I’ll keep an eye out for your recommendation. Thanks mate! Appreciate it.
Totally agree with you on " *You can't go wrong with either of the two* " sisters. In fact Excellent is Excellent, not more! But then this might be another good example of how excess knowledge could be dangerous or at least, Costly, to say. Coz the moment you know there is something called 6 elements, you won't settle anymore for 5, without really getting too much in return but surely you can't go anymore with the less! I hope and before anything else, is to find out a cure for our greed and more emphasis on Rationality, Practicality and AFFORDIBILITY.
If you would like to start collecting the 5 element versions in sequence... SN/53802 is currently available on eBay here in the UK.....! Mind officially blown !
I have what I believe is the 5 element - I'll check when I get home. I HATE THE LENS - it is worthless. The aberrations are bad (bad!) in any amount of sunlight at all. Even though my lens is in perfect condition, I regret the purchase....probably should have bought the 6. Great review.
@@MarkHoltze Hi thanks Mark, yeah, I'm using a fotodiox adapter on a fujifilm X-T3. I've tried different conditions. There can be no sunlight at all . An overcast day might be okay, or in the woods. You absolutely cannot take a picture of the moon...pure UV light. I've looked into advanced UV filters but don't want to waste even more money....right now I am shooting some film and seeing if using original equipment (spotmatic) makes any difference. Clean up in LR cannot get rid of enough to save the photos. I really think the lens is a piece of junk. I have two other Takumars, and love them. I'll probably gift the lens to someone at some point - and I'll keep futzing.
Old video, I know, but I just picked up one of these bad boys for my a7RIII because I've been wanting to play around with a "new" hunk of vintage glass and this video sold me, so it's your fault lol. It's the five-element version but I really don't care about that -- if I want perfect IQ I'll just shoot with my GM and art glass. I'm looking forward to some "character." Great comparison!
Not to forget that teh 6-element-version has a K-Mount re-incanation. I hat the 6e. SMC Takumar from 75 to 02, bought and sold a K-version and rebought it meanwhile again to use it on my K1 - for K-Mount use the automatic apperature is a big handling advantage
I used the 135 on my fujifilm X-T30 and was really happy with it actually. Everybody talks about speed boosters but I don’t mind the cropped in focal lengths on APS-C
as always Mark, amazing video! and I really like your storytelling. I might add this lens to the wishlist in the near future, but I'm wondering if this lens also can be used as a macro lens?
Thanks mate! With some macro tubes MAYBE< but it's got such a distant min focusing distance that it might not work so well. Better off getting the SMC Takumar 100 mm Macro F4 if you want to get in closer.
Stopped down the sharpness is pretty much equal, for me ktd always a better test to test wide open because that’s where the optics tend to fall apart. The 5 And 6 at F4 are equal.
I just acquirred a 5 element Super-Tak to match it to my K version (which uses the same takumar 6/6 formula). I was not really thrilled with the K 135/2.5 - I hope to get something good in the 5 element version.
Mark Holtze oops. Forgot to say. It’s a Super Tak m42 mount. I’m actually 3 weeks in a personal project during winter to take my mind off the cold. I’m testing a different vintage lens every week till spring. So far I’ve done a 28/3.5 Super Takumar, Minolta 50/2, and just started the third lens. I’m doing this on instagram- tonyreidsma
There are two possibly made the difference between these two lenses. Since these are used lenses, we don't know that they been took apart for cleaning . Put back together may make the difference if they are not professional job. Coating may contribute another major factor. I never pay attention on number of blades on the aperture. As the most important part is the lens itself.
Definitely a factor to consider, great points Lawrence! It's tough to know and we can only really test within the limitations on what we have and what history we known of the lenses themselves. These tests can't be fully scientific because of the factors you state for sure as well. Based on what I did notice, there was better control on CA in higher contrast areas on the 6 element, slightly better edge to edge sharpness. Again even based on that, without really going TOO deep into the pixel peeping, very few people would notice the difference. Curious to know how these differences transferred on film as well, my guess is it wouldn't even be noticeable.
I think they are both great lenses. I guess the 5-elements has a little more micro-contrast due to one element less, that's a pro for portaits. the fact that it has a little more CA is for me nothing to worry about, you can fix it in post-processing. If you really need edge to edge sharpness the 6-elements is the one. There is no bad Takumar 135mm .......... they are only different for each occasion. BTW I also have both f/2.5's.
Ya I don’t mind CA either really. To some people it’s graffiti on their images. It’s good having done the tests because both have a place depending what I want to shoot.
the abberation is lateral, not medial. So I would say it's more of a out-of-focus character. You should test it at some shiny surface while they're in focus.
Nice video. I'm using a Super-Multi-Coated 135mm f3.5 on a Canon 80D. So far, a very nice lens to use. Might upgrade soon, but I'm only a beginner, so I probably won't be able to tell the difference... 🤣
I love your videos, and this one was very informative. It also got me wondering about the old Canon 135 f2.5 lenses. They look like potential bargains.
Thanks DJ, a friend of mine picked up the FD 135 2.5 and LOVES it. I think he paid $100 CND for it at the Camerama Camera show (one of the vintage sales I went to, I did a video on it, "what did I buy") I think is the title of that one. So many great FD lenses at those things. I'd love to get my hands on one, compare it to the Super Tak.
Thanks! This event is a vintage camera fair. Vendors come from all over to sell their goods. Loads of fun. We have two big ones in Toronto every year, one coming up Oct 27th and one in the spring around May. Camerama which is a smaller event happens once every quarter for a total of 6 buy events per year in Toronto. It's pretty cool! If you're in the area you should totally go. I'm going to document the one on the 27th coming up this month.
Quite a lot more sharpness on the 6 Element on the bricks. Can’t helping thinking from a non video view the vignetting in the older lens @2.5 would add nice drama for photography. That Bronica is stunning.
Honestly I like vignetting, so I don’t mind it. It’s easy enough to counter as well in both video and photo to remove it. The Bronica has the most beautiful viewfinder. It’s the coolest! Can’t wait to shoot with it
What do you guys think of the CULT? 5 elements BAD, 6 elements GOOD?
1:29: Meet the lenses (5 Element)
1:54: Meet the lenses (6 Element) CULT
2:22: How to identify a 5 and 6 element
3:52: Camera Test
6:17: Final Thoughts
@Ali Avci That's a good idea. I'll compile them up and post them in a google link in a bit. Probably next week sometime. Swamped with final week on a show I'm on before we break for the holidays.
@Ali Avci Thanks mate, I'd love to hear your analysis. I'll post and reply here when it's up.
@@MarkHoltze Hi Mark! After watching this video a bunch of times, I wanted one so much! I ended up with both versions too. I managed to buy the 5 elements in brand new condition including the case for a bargain. Then, I saw a local listing for a Pentax Spotmatic F with lenses less than 100 EUR. Because of your video, I eagle-eyed the photos and saw the "4" in the 135mm f2.5! It's a 135mm 2.5 6-element! The ad didn't last 30 minutes online (I bought it). To my surprise, it also came with an SMC Takumar 35mm f2 and an SMC Takumar 55mm 1.8. Score! I'm going to test both side-by-side and maybe sell one (or keep both?). Hmmm but one Spotmatic really has to go as now I have two! The original Spotty and the F. Both in great condition.
Thank you for your awesome Takumar videos! It really doesn't help with my GAS. Though I sold all AF lenses that I have for my Sony system.
Thanks for posting this video! I have the 6 element version, which I took on a photo shoot to an old village in Hong Kong. The sharpness, contrast and fall-off to smooth background and foreground blur captured beautifully the textures of buildings and landscape. It wildly exceded my expectations.
That opening shot 😵😵
Let be honest this wasn’t about wanting to do a comparison, you just wanted to join a cult!!
Genuinely a phenomenal video dude, how you manage to squeeze so
Much detail into these, whilst still crafting a clear story arch is incredible. As ever, just awesome dude.
Hand held Hitchcock vertigo zoom lol. I was obsessed with those back in my video HI 8 days, it was easy to match because of the electric zoom...loved that look and thought ya, this could be cult like ;).
Thanks mate, I find these to be more fun if you can somehow start in one place, go somewhere (both physically and in terms of content) and bring it all the way back around to where you started.
I find the actual process of lens testing to be super fun, mostly because I'm not exactly sure what results i'm going to get and they allow me to study them in ways I wouldn't normally do if I was just out shooting random things for fun.
Learning the nuances of how a lens performs is so useful in terms of how you compose your shots so I really should just do this with every lens. I get a new lens, I put it on my camera and I shoot just everything with it for like a month to see how it performs and how I like it.
A big reason why I love primes so much is you really get a sense of the focal length and what works/doesn't work for it. Zooms you can just frame in a bit or out a bit and land your shot, prime you have to physically move your body and for some reason that just resonates with me.
This coming from a guy who's shot nothing but zooms almost my whole career, maybe it's just a phase ;)
Anyway thanks for the comment mate!
pentax forums should bestow moderator status upon you for this... finally!! a comprehensive comparison!!
haha! Thanks mate! I've never been a mod before...the responsibility makes my knees shake ;)
@@MarkHoltze the fstoppers bump! congratulations!!!
Hah ya thanks! Stoked about that. Been a fan of them forever :)
@@MarkHoltze good things happen to good people. keep up the good work.
But I’m ....babababa bad, babababa bad, bad to the bone ;)
Excellent review. I don’t understand how bigger TH-camrs even get product when yours on a lens my age is 1000x more informative and entertaining. Thank you.
Thanks mate! I’m not sure, I suspect my stuff is pretty niche so it doesn’t get the masses attention the same way and I think product requires eyeballs. All good with me, I pick my video topics based on what is inspiring me, having to review something out of obligation might remove some of that creative freedom I currently have.
I am enjoying the process of figuring out how to shoot them in somewhat interesting ways :)
Just ran to find out which version I had. It's the 6 element. I never knew. Thank you for the video.
me either ~
Nice breakdown Mark! I already own a 5 element, and today my 6 element arrived in like new condition. Can't wait to try it out. The 5 element already is such a beast of a lens on Sony Fullframe. Vintage as f*ck, but still sharp enough with good bokeh and color rendition.
Finally a comparison of the 2 epic lenses... as you said one had SUPPOSEDLY better specs but this video proves it. I have the 6 element version, it's in pristine condition.
I was looking up the two as a comparison a while ago to see the difference and couldn’t find any. When I saw the 6 at the show I was like I could totally fill that gap because there must be others out there who are curious.
My 6 is in less good shape than my 5 which is perfect (no nicks or scratches)
New fan here. Your videos just became a 3 hour obsession for my lens. Amazing work.
Thanks N D, they've been a catalyst for a massive journey myself! Happy you share those connections!
Really enjoying your reviews. I purchased my first Super Takumar (55/1.8) partly based on your vintage lens insights. I've just ordered the 135mm (6 element of course ;). Can'y wait. Keep up the wonderful work!
Thanks Paul! How do you like the 55? It's such a great focal length I think.
Mark Holtze ... love it! Colors, tone, contrast are perfect for my taste. I’ve only had it a few days and I’ve yet to try it for video, but looking forward to giving it a spin at the weekend! Lovely stuff.
This video was beautifully done. I really love this.
Thanks Greg! Super cool of you to say mate! So sorry for the delayed response, I'm just seeing this comment now!
Joined the cult tonight...VERY excited to get this out into the wild.
Let me know how you like it mate! Curious to hear!
The prices have only gotten worse since this video was made, so I finally opted for the 5-element version.
I had been holding out for a 6-element at a decent price but got tired of waiting.
Plus I scored a 5-element for a smoking deal, it just needs the optics cleaned, which is a piece of cake on the Tak's.
That made the choice easy.
This is great! I've got my eyes on a 5 element right now to replace my SMC Pentax M 135/3.5. After seeing this, I feel good about not holding out for a 6 element.
I have the five element and who knows maybe I'll get the six element in the future. Nonetheless, both are wonderful to add to your gear. Thank you so much for posting this comparison video!
6 for the CULT status, but otherwise keep and enjoy your 5 ;)
I just found your channel and as a long time fan of the M42 mont Takumar lenses, this is quite the goldmine! I never even knew there were two versions of this lens, but I now know I have the best one :-)
Great channel, keep it up!
Hold onto it!!! Precious!!! :)
@@MarkHoltze It's not going anywhere :-)
@@thedondeluxe6941 Good! :)
I have the 5 Element version. Mine is in great condition. It, along with my 85/1.9 are two of my most valued Super-Takumar lenses. It's nice and chunky kinda heavy and not a lens I would walk around with. I adds a fair amount of weight to the camera bag. As a side note, I also have a SMC 135/3.5 Takumar. Not as fast but it is smaller and lighter.
Just bought one of these lenses for $50 canadian and picking it up tomorrow, after watching this I cannot wait to try it out..
love watching the the video by the way andill be back to watch more
That's a great price Adrian! I'm actually in the midst of testing out the F/3.5 version right now.
@@MarkHoltze looking forward to seeing that one as I have been looking at buying one also.. I bought this lense not nowing really what it was, it just sounded like it could be a fun lens to have and use from the specs
I like your videos. You are the only one that has made a legit video about the lens. I just bought a 6 elements for 125 bucks in mint condition....so excited to use it. Thanks for you video
Good price mate, you'll love the lens I don't doubt it. Tryin to show the potential of these things, I honestly think they're the absolute best value i photography these days. Even videography, they're just so good to use. Thanks for watching and your kind words.
I hunted this lens down and because I had no meter I wasn't ready to try it. But I packed it as a back up on a day when many things just refused to go right, including a setup that had a failed circuit board. Not only did I miss the target golden hour but was loosing daylight all-together. Out comes the back-up Spotmatic with some FP4 (What the heck)--- WOW! Thanks Mark.
I am so happy that I found your channel. Recently got the Fujifilm X-T3, switching from DSLR, and am now seriously considering manual lenses with the support for manual focus the camera gives, and after watching your channel vintage lenses looks like a serious option for some great and cheap lenses. After all, for portraits and other like photos, you don't really need auto focus.
Mirrorless are perfect with all vintage lenses too. I can switch bodies in the future and just swap cheap adapters while keeping the lenses the same. I love manuals lenses anyway, connect you more to the craft I find. Depends what you are shooting but people have done it for years before auto focus hasn’t become what it has.
Portraits are perfect for being selective on what you want to focus on as well.
Great tutorial, great videos. Thank you for getting me off the wagon. Now I have to get the 6 element version, sharp even in the corners. I have 7 different taks and they are all awesome.
Hi Henry! Thanks mate! Tak’s!! GO! The 6 is a thing of beauty I won’t lie ;)
Especially in smartphones If you wanna get into the details of a photo, six-element lenses are very helpful....
Mine is a 5 element, and i have just bought a Soligor 135mm f3.5 that stomps it! it has 12 black anodized blades!! It perfectly matches my 100mm f4 , also made by Tokina and sold as 'Lentar' 'Porst' Miranda' etc.
I have a 28mm aspheric f2.8 LEntar with Preset aperture and 21mm f3.5 ( My grandfathers! ) as well, like a perfectly matched team, with any of my other Tokina 50mms. Would be fun to do some tests with them!
That’s so cool!!
I decided to purchase the 6 element version based on this video. It was one of the cheapest on eBay, but there was very minor fungus marks on the rear element. Having said this, the damage was so minor it was hard to notice in a video showing the lens off. The pics posted that were taken with this lens also looked really nice. Sharp. If it turns out to be a bust then I still have my 3.5 version! LOL!
I have the 6 element version and it's astonishingly sharp wide open. What I noticed though is that the S-M-C Takumar 85mm 1.8 has a bit more contrast wide open than the 135mm and the colors are a bit more interesting as well. But the 135mm beats it with sharpness, clarity and Chromatic aberration.
I am more than happy with both of them... and that built quality is wonderful...
Thanks for this comparison! Looking forward for more :).
Hi Thomas! I should do a personal test between the two. The 85 and 135 as "best telephoto" kind of thing. I never thought to compare the two, but that's a good idea.
I'm honestly happy with both, I think the 6 for me is just that "collector item now" and I did REALLY want to do a side by side to see the difference. It's interesting they switched the models so close together. I have the 135 3.5 as well which is a great lens, but it's another option for comparison.
Thanks for your time and incite Thomas.
@@MarkHoltze My impression is that the "bigger brothers" of the 55mm 1.8 and 135mm 3.5 (the 50 1.4 and 135 2.5) have that more IQ I appreciate... More saturated colors and even sharpness... Also more artistic room of course...
They also considered them as part of the luxury line... Or something like that... (The 35 2.0, 50 1.4, 85 1.8, 135 2.5, 300 4).
Another Takumar I love for it's rendering is the S-M-C 28mm 3.5.
28, 50 and 85 and I am all set... Often also I switch the 85 with the 135.
By the way... the 35mm 2.0 is also amazing for portraits, wide open. But only if the focus is close in the center. Lovely rendering...
For everything else 35mm, better the 35mm 3.5...
I love the 35 wide open! Such a great lens.
@@MarkHoltze :)
While commenting on your latest video, TH-cam recommends me this video of yours and I end up getting the 6-element off eBay for 150 USD. Will let you know my thoughts once it arrives.
Thanks to your tips, I know it’s a 6-element even though the seller doesn’t say so 😄
6 element is good, it will be better long term if you want to re-sell it. 150USD is a good price too. Def let me know your thoughts. It's a great lens.
Found one for $20, one of the best purchases ever. Needs a bit of cleaning, but test shots are already promising.
Right on!
Great job Mark... Another awesome review. Be well and stay encouraged!!!
Thank you kindly Jacob.
Finally actual video testing proof to dispell all of the rumours and myths out there regarding these vintage lenses..got the 5 element myself,got it pretty cheap and i use it for portraiture.I prefer the size and weight of the 5 since it's big and heavier than most of my other lenses so i don't think i'll be searching for the 6 element anytime soon.But even the 3.5 version is a great lens..Takumars rule..Let's see a Smc Super Tak 55mm 1.8 vs Smc 50mm 1.4 shoot-out next.Great work btw.
Thanks mate! Ya I hadn’t seen any side by side videos online so I was hoping to fill that gap. I have the 135mm 3.5 that was generously gifted to me by a friend. It’s in rough physical condition but still takes a nice photo. It’s much smaller, I’m gojng to test it out against on of the 2.5’s soon. Prob less of s video and more of a personal test. Might share the results if they’re interesting enough. 3.5 is pretty cheap right now.
Yes, a Smc Super Tak 55mm 1.8 vs Smc 50mm 1.4 shoot out would be good
@@DaveWatts_ejectamenta There is no comparison . I own them all and nothing beats the 50 1.4.
Excellent review Mark. So nice to see such a thoughtful and elegant comparison. Well done!
I noticed the 5 element lens is a Super Takumar not SMC Takumar. That can make a difference in performance as well, the Super Takumar being and older series but still pretty amazing. Use to be a funny add for SMC Takumar of a lens being used as an ashtray then it being cleaned off and put on a camera showing no loss in quality from numerous smoked being butted out on the front element.
👍Great video, Mark. Love your cinematic approach to a technical subject. Nice rail track scene. Cults demand sacrifices 💀- was that your hidden meaning in the flames shot 😁? I have the (younger?) sibling lens, smc pentax-m 135mm f3.5 - f32, 8 blade iris, full manual, with built in retractable lens hood, k mount, great color rendition, correctable ca, and something I don't recall you mentioning in your vids - an oval gold colored sticker that says "Passed JCII 79 JMDC." I don't see that label any more. I assume it is a QC ok symbol, but that's all. Can you clear up the mystery? Does the sticker affect value?
Thanks Paul! Gosh I’m not even sure about the sticker thing. I need to look into that.
The CZ 135 2.8 I almost bought at the camera sale has a retractable hood. I love that idea, so convenient!
Just got one...AUD$140, 6 element, mint condition. Pretty stoked with the price!
Hey MightyMike! Dropping that knowledge in the beggining! It's pretty awesome seeing you here. Give him more screen time! 👍👍
Miss those camera sales…pandemic and all.
Hey Mark, been watching your videos for a while! I think your channel is great. I got bitten by the vintage lens bug a few years back and I enjoy your vintage lens reviews. Keep up with good work! Just subscribed today.
Hi Nelson! Ohhh that bug right? 😂 thanks for the support mate, I appreciate it! What’s your fav lens?
@@MarkHoltze I don't know if I have a favorite, I like all of them. I guess if I had to choose it would be my minolta rokkor x 45mm , and a minolta Celtic 135 F/3.5 because they belonged to my mom and she passed away about 20 years ago. So, they aren't the best lenses but have sentimental value.
I know the feeling, my grandfather’s lenses and camera gear are my favourite. Also what got me into it, mounting the pentacon 50 and boom, completely changed my perspective.
I need to test out some Minoltas. Thanks!
@@MarkHoltze i have a minolta 16mm fisheye that I'm going to be making a video on. I'm excited about that. Thanks again for your videos.
@@The_Retro_Room I'm going to wait for that 16mm video eagerly! My pleasure mate, they're a lot of fun to do so I plan to keep up with them.
Hey Mark ! i´m following your channel and i love it. Just ordered 135mm 6 elements it was only one Left!!! 168 USD Hi from Denmark
Hi mate! Welcome! You'll love the 6 element and that's a good price mate! It's a fantastic lens.
@@MarkHoltze Thanks man :))
Just bought a copy after this video.
I managed to get a 6 element version from Hong Kong, with both caps and the metal hood, virtually brand new.
It will serve you well! Fantastic lens
@@MarkHoltze thanks to your review sir👍
I have another two Tak's aswell, a 24mm f3.5 and a 55mm f2 but it has another click perhaps a 1.8?
there are two versions of the 135mm 2.5 "S-M-C" (not SMC!, there is another Pentax SMC btw).
You compared the 6 Element with a Single Coated "Super Takumar" 5 Element, not The S-M-C .
Any help to buy the clearer corner version would be appreciated, as in 6:10...
Are any sharp ones also labeled SMC or S-M-C, etc ???
How do we know what we are buying?? Mahalos, -Scotty on Maui.
Chromatic Aberrations. The high contrast green hue on the outer part of the ring. The 6 element doesn’t have any.
@@jmoss99 LENS coatings are mostly marketing mate, you can expect more, but in all my testing I'm not seeing much of a difference apart from slightly different flaring magenta vs green. It's a non issue, marketing to sell new lenses. Sorry to disappoint, but just look at the images and draw some of your own conclusions :). A lot of this is splitting hairs. The extra element is used for CA correections, not coatings coatings will impact flares mostly and even that....the differences are so minor it's almost not worth it to show in great detail.
Only reason i even compared these two is because the reputation the 6 element has over the SMC and Super Takumar 135's F/2.5. Is that hype worth it? Have a look and see for yourself, draw your own conclusions ;)
I try to leave a lot of room for interpretation based on the image samples. I like to this of this more as University where I leave room for interpretation vs holding your hand through it ;)
@@MarkHoltze Huhhh???
-More than one of TH-camrs with Vintage lens tests say that the differences in newer lenses being better than their predecessors... (i.e. - less flare) IS the coatings. So, sometimes, they promote the older Vintage lenses for the Cinematic flare effects...
"Wait, What???"
@@bubblerings Coatings impact the flaring yes, they don't impact the CA seen at stated time code which is the foundation of this discussion. I mentioned the multicoating impacts the flaring in these comments, but overcast day, not much flare going on to really signpost the differences. HOW much better is the question, are the differences demonstrated or are they just stated?
I almost always shoot with a hood and on a long focal length its' very easy NOT to flare because of the short FOV. Wider lenses have a much harder time.
As stated before, the images demonstrate the performance, based on those samples you can deduct your own conclusions.
Looks good to me using the 6 element. You should do a boot review and outdoor jacket review to help us get thru this winter.
Great video Mark!
Thanks mate! Hopefully it did these lenses some justice. I do love them ;) BOTH of them ;)
MY friend ! GREAT JOB ! You need nobody to inspire you ! YOU ALREADY GREAT ! YOUR TH-cam CHANNEL IS GREAT !!! JUST KEEP GOING !!!! BELIEVE IN YOURSELF MORE !
Thank you Mark. I recently purchased the 6 element in mint condition for 179.00. I don't see a ton of difference between it and my Nikon 135 f2.8 AIS or Series E but will give it a nod for build quality.
I’d love to compare it to the FF 135 2.5 and Carl Zeiss 135 2.8.
The 6 Element is superior for all the reasons you stated, but if someone's budget was more restrictive that they had to settle for the 5 element, it would still yield solid results. Excellent review / comparison Mark!
Agreed..the thing is some people try to sell the 135 for a premium price. They won’t mention if it’s a 5 or 6 and if you can’t see by the markings (the 4 on focus ring is only on the 6 for example). The 5 shouldn’t go for as high as the 6, but they’re both cheaper than the Carl Zeiss 135 2.8 that goes for about $250. I was looking at that one before I bought the 6. Zeiss vs tak or tak vs tak.
@@MarkHoltze oh good point. I'm glad your video has the valusble detail added in. By the way, yes you should do that zeiss vs tak vs tak vs tak!
i love the doly zoom you did there :)
Cheeky combo of zooming in and leaning back.
Thanks mark! Lovely review
Thanks Claudio! I may need to keep the flood of lenses coming in to keep up these reviews, I do really like doing them. Beg borrow and steal maybe ;).
steal as a last option hahaha good job mark!
Yes desperate times only...and only if to feed your family ;)
and to feed our lenses family jajaja
:p
Exactly! 😂
I have one since the launch of the first canon 5D. It's one of the best lens for the price I ever had. The difference between Canon or Fuji lens is not just about the sharpness or the chromatic aberration, its the color render which is unique. I use it today on my Fuji XT3 or Xpro2 with an M42 adapter.
Colour is a huge thing with lenses. DP’s will pick a lens kit based on it, it’s also why we like to collect like branded stuff. So you have that uniformity captured in camera.
You’ve know the value of these bad boys awhile it seems, respect!
Mark Holtze During these days I spent entire nights tracking these lens on eBay Japan or eBay Germany for the russian ones...So I have a small collection of Takumar and some Zuiko also.
A lot of indie cinematographer are using old lens.
You got them for peanuts I bet as well. My latest video I discuss adapting these old lenses for traditional DP use. I shoot everything I do with them video wise and a few DP friends I have shoot commercial spots with them, so they’re absolutely insane value for both hobbiests and professionals.
I love the barrel design of these Takumars. I got the Minolta Rokkor MCII series which has hill/valley focus ring's too and is in my opinion super handy because you get more grip even wearing gloves.
I got a few Takumar's with this design 35mm and 50mm's and also found a few 135mm 2.5's but with the rubber focus rings Not a fan of rubber but for 15 euro in mint isnt that bad since I wanted to complete my dad's old Pentax ME Super Kit (which had the latest rubber focus ring design) . I never tested it on digital... But man... When i took it out on a summer day for portraits on my A7 and i was really BLOWN away from the results of those 135 2.5's these are amazing! The rubber versions are cheaper but I really think they are worth more... They perform mad crazy.
Again really cool video! I love it!
Really enjoyed this comparison. Thanks man!
Happy to hear that mate. Did you have a preference on which one?
It was hard to tell the 5 element lens had some character to it that I liked especially in the center but the 6 element obviously edge to edge was sharper, if I had to choose probably the 6 element. I love 135 focal length especially for portraits. I have a vintage 3.5 from Canon that’s pretty great but a wider aperture would be awesome.
Ya it is hard to tell, like if not for side by side I prob wouldn’t even have noticed as much. The brick wall test was pretty evident edge to edge but I kind of like out of focus edges sometimes.
2.5 is pretty crazy on a tele...two inches off focus point and it’s already falling apart. Cool for some things for sure. I also love it for portrait work.
Mark Holtze yeah I was just thinking about the five element and using the “flaws” to your advantage or purposefully putting things in the edge for interesting effects. In some ways it might be more beneficial.
It’s another layer to isolate your subject. You can always frame the edges as well and just be focus to them, the Center won’t be be sharp but the edge will. Using depth of field andlittle characteristics like this in filmmaking/composition is so much better to capture in camera.
And yes, use “flaws” creatively and you can get some really cool results. I always find working with limitations vs abundance to yield far more compelling stuff.
Omg your videos are just so satisfying to watch. Love them. Keep doing the good work.
Thanks you sincerely mate. I’m enjoying producing them and showing off the potential these old “dusty” lenses can do.
Thanks for giving them your time!
Lots of love mate. I have a 135mm 2.8 too. But its from a not a well known brand called "hoya". Idk if you have heard about it.
I've seen a few HOYA lenses at these vintage shows! What mount are they" I should take a look at some. M42?
No it is Pk mount. Pentax k to be precise
AHH! Thanks mate! K mount GO!
I bought my 6 element a couple years ago. I paid around $220. They were all around 300 back then so I got a good deal. Might be my best tak lens I own.
Taks I own
35f2, 50f1.8, 50f4 macro, 85f1.9, 105f2.8, 135f2.5,. I do want the 100mm macro and the 50mm 1.4... I had the 24mm 3.5. great sharp lens but it's too close to my 35mm and don't think it will ever get used if I get it again.
Ya I saw the 24 3.5 at the last camera sale I was at. It was $180 the same as the 135 6. I have the FD 24 so didn’t need another one, 3.5 not as fast as I wouldn’t like as well. Wondering why it goes for so much, the 35 F2 I got for about $130.
Great information. Production quality off the chart. Thanks!
Thanks! Been awhile since anybody saw this one so sorry bit might have been dusty in here. Appreciate you stopping by and leaving your thoughts! ✊
yay great to see another video mate. :-) all those camera bits and bobs makes it feel like Christmas. ;-) it definitly is slightly sharper that 6. im going to try my old 135 i have somewhere. :-)
Thanks mate! What 135 do you have laying about somewhere?
Great comparison, and love the light work on the lenses. Hope you are having a rocking start to 2019!
Thank you mate. Had fun with this one. Always have fun shooting these when I can squeeze in the time to do them lol.
Happy new year brother!
Got the 6 element one and it's great , thanks for all reviews.
Hi Trevor, my pleasure mate. Thanks for watching. You have any other Tak’s?
Got the 50mm f2.8 as well plus vivitar 70-210 and a hanimex 28mm f2.8 which is my favorite
Vivitar 70-210 I hear good things about. Never heard of the Henemix , going to go look it up. Thank you Trevor!
Dude. You are very persuasive about this whole super-takumar thang.
I’m weighing up between these and a set of FD primes.
Oh, and nice dolly-zoom.
Takumars are something special, I can’t explain it, it’s just how they feel. I never would have known they existed if I hadn’t seen one first hand and held it. The focus is just butter. Nice quality feel to it, the optics are a total bonus for sure.
@@MarkHoltze Totally agree. There's a lot of nice vintage glass out there but the tolerances on these Takumars are pretty high up there!
Can you review some nikon F mount vintage lenses ? Btw your videos are so necessary in these day and ages cause many photographers including me are into vintage lense markets.
Hi mate, I would be happy to, just need to get my hands on one ;). I rarely see them at these vintage camera sales, I need to do some research on a good one. From what I hear, they are fantastic!
I have both, you will notice great differences when shooting on a Fujifilm GFX. Can you do the super takumar 50 mm 1.4 6 & 5 element comparison There is also another cult following there. Well done video... Thanks
I’m keeping my eyes open. Such a video I think would be helpful!
Thanks mate!
Great video Mark, you nailed this!
Thanks Russell! Had loads of fun doing this one!
Just got the 6-element version today.
Awesome! How do you like it?
I love your video's! Have you ever looked at the Nikkor 105 2.5? I Got mine from a friend and it was covered in gunk I cleaned it and it was almost like it had never been used.
I love the lens and It has a cool story and might have been the lens used for that iconic National Geographic cover (might be a rumor tho)
Keep up the good work :)
Kind regards
Jørgen
Thanks mate! I will see about the 105! Definitely interested in the story behind it!
Jørgen Bjørn It's not a rumor; that is definitely the lens Steve McCurry used to make the iconic "Afghan Girl" photo.
At any rate, it's a fabulous lens. I'll never part with mine and probably even prefer it to the AF 135/2 D.C. Nikkor.
@@djtoman6875 Ohhhh cool! Thank you so much! I love how I randomly got a lens with such a great story :)
Jørgen Bjørn It's great that yours cleaned up so nicely. What camera(s) do you use it on?
You pay a little more from dealers, but they come in prestine optical condition so it’s worth it to me. Opening up a lens terrifies me I’ll break it.
For vintage I use the Sony A7Sii. The c100m2 as well, I have the 6Dii but don’t really use vintage on it. Mirrorless are a much better platform for adapted lenses I tbink just because of all the extras help they offer. Focusing etc. Also that flange distance is a problem on dslr’s woh some lenses.
You?
Great video Mark!
I've got the 5 element which I'm pretty happy with. I haven't owned a bad Tak yet! ;)
(Didn't know you had a 6D Mark ii) I love my 6D2!!!!
Ya in all honesty, the difference between the two is so small, the 5 is a beast. Ya he 6D2, it’s a good camera!
@@MarkHoltze the same can be said for the 50mm f/1.4, 7 and 8 element lenses too. I have both and can't see much difference. I give the 8 element a slight edge though with sharpness and rendering/contrast when pixel peepin'.
My 6D2 is my main FF shooter for my modern kit. I ended up buying a Pentax K1 a couple months ago for my dedicated body to shoot all my vintage glass on from now on. The sensor and dynamic range in the K1 is astonishing! Plus it has IBIS. (best investment I've made in a long time).
Happy shooting! ;)
Definitely, since I use these for video mostly even that image quality difference (as small as it is) doesn't make much difference. Even at 4K it's still nowhere near the full resolution of some camera stills.
The 6DII was just me wanting a still for my Canon glass, since I'm invested in it for so long I just wanted something I didn't have to adapt and not spend too much on. I'm a full frame guy as well so the 6DII at it's price point made sense.
I just found the Takumar 135mm F2.5 from a thrift store for forty-five dollars. It's in great condition.
Yessss!! Nice find!!!! Enjoy it!
was given and old camera bag and it had the 135 and the 50mm , great lenses!
Oh wow! More than a little jealous. Both those lenses are fantastic.
Mark
I have the 135 mm 3.5 Pentax pk as well as the Pentax 150 mm 3.5 pk mount as well as the Takamur 135 3.5 m42 mount . I use the Pentax verison as it has they have the built in lens hoods i have found the lens excllent manuel focus lenses not as fast as your lens but the Pentax lenses are much smaller and lighter . I use them when i want to isolite a subjet and get good bokeh when used wide open .
I have the 135 takumar 3.5 as well. Great lens actually, super affordable and honestly at 135mm 3.5 is fine. 2.5 with some distance is almost too soft a background.
The built in lens hood on PK is so handy! It’s a great focal length.
Thanx for your videos. I think all Pentax lenses are really good value for The money.. New designs and vintage ones. Thanks again
I suppose I'm a member of the cult by virtue of owning the sixer. But I tend to agree with your summation- both are awesome lenses for most practical purposes. Thanks for the comparison!
I totally bought it over the CZ 135 F2.8 because of the “cult”, on top of really wanting to do a comprehensive side by side. Still happy I did, the 5 is mint physically, the 6 is a little more battle damaged on the physical lens so given I’ve fallen for these SMC’s I don’t mind having a few as collectors items. Funny enough I never collected anything my whole life.
I want to see this called the TAK TAK BATTLE! ;)
Love the video man! Your Lens B-roll is like crack, love getting to see all those macro shots haha.
First of all, your vintage photographic stuff collection makes me jealous ;-)
Now, on the more serious note, I do have Olympus OM 135mm f3,5 which suffers even more on CA wide open than that 5 element Pentax, but on the other hand, it's sharp corner to corner, has beautiful bokeh despite being only f3,5, and had cost me only US $30 a couple of years ago. Additionally, recently I bought Pentacon 135mm f2,8, mainly for swirly effect when shooting portraits for the same money. Now that being said, I guess I overpaid it course only later I realised it has too much dust inside. Not a problem I couldn't solve, I can open it and clean myself, if I buy the tools for that endeavour :-)
Now given I already have those two 135's, personally, only if I would need perfectly sharp one without any CA, I'd go straight to 6 element Pentax.
Cheers...
I need look into opening the lens. Scared to, but I hear it’s not that bad. A lot of these dealers do it to grease the focus etc. The nice thing about telephoto is that you already can get a nice blurred background if you have good separation from subject. 3.5 would be fine in most cases. I think the 2.5 against the train tracks was almost too much. Super cool image but the background was a vanilla milkshake. By 3.5 it started to come together nice.
I love pentacon lenses by the way. They’re great value for the $$$
Excellent video on these lovely lenses Mark. I have been shooting with the 6 element version lately and find it is an outstanding bargain. It is sharp, even wide open, with a little help in Capture One Pro that is. Love the bokeh, soft and creamy. It is a bargain of a lens.
Your vine is excellent and eliminates many doubts, now I have to look for the 6 elements version. I have the 5 elements (43801, 30 next to the Infinite and an R between 8 and 6) in 2.5 has chromatic aberration, in 3.5 little, well beyond, but in Lightroom, you can see the difference with my Rolleinar MC 2.8 135mm, which I believe insurmountable, for lenses of that time. If you have an opportunity, try it.
Thanks for such a good video.
Thank Roberto! I have the 135 3.5 as well I should do some tests with. It’s been so cold that my lens reviews have been sort of on hold for the fact my battery will die in mins and I’m making disgruntled noises every second I’m outside I don’t have to be lol.
I’ll keep an eye out for your recommendation. Thanks mate! Appreciate it.
I bought the 5 paid $12 great condition also.
That’s a great deal wow!!
Totally agree with you on " *You can't go wrong with either of the two* " sisters. In fact Excellent is Excellent, not more! But then this might be another good example of how excess knowledge could be dangerous or at least, Costly, to say. Coz the moment you know there is something called 6 elements, you won't settle anymore for 5, without really getting too much in return but surely you can't go anymore with the less! I hope and before anything else, is to find out a cure for our greed and more emphasis on Rationality, Practicality and AFFORDIBILITY.
If you would like to start collecting the 5 element versions in sequence... SN/53802 is currently available on eBay here in the UK.....! Mind officially blown !
I have what I believe is the 5 element - I'll check when I get home. I HATE THE LENS - it is worthless. The aberrations are bad (bad!) in any amount of sunlight at all. Even though my lens is in perfect condition, I regret the purchase....probably should have bought the 6.
Great review.
That’s a shame. What camera are you adapting it to? Can you receive the aberrations enough in light room?
@@MarkHoltze Hi thanks Mark, yeah, I'm using a fotodiox adapter on a fujifilm X-T3. I've tried different conditions. There can be no sunlight at all . An overcast day might be okay, or in the woods. You absolutely cannot take a picture of the moon...pure UV light. I've looked into advanced UV filters but don't want to waste even more money....right now I am shooting some film and seeing if using original equipment (spotmatic) makes any difference. Clean up in LR cannot get rid of enough to save the photos. I really think the lens is a piece of junk. I have two other Takumars, and love them. I'll probably gift the lens to someone at some point - and I'll keep futzing.
The version 2 seems so good it starts to loose the "character" or "uniqueness" :).
You can alway “Dirty” it up in post ;)
Old video, I know, but I just picked up one of these bad boys for my a7RIII because I've been wanting to play around with a "new" hunk of vintage glass and this video sold me, so it's your fault lol. It's the five-element version but I really don't care about that -- if I want perfect IQ I'll just shoot with my GM and art glass. I'm looking forward to some "character."
Great comparison!
Not to forget that teh 6-element-version has a K-Mount re-incanation. I hat the 6e. SMC Takumar from 75 to 02, bought and sold a K-version and rebought it meanwhile again to use it on my K1 - for K-Mount use the automatic apperature is a big handling advantage
✊
It would be interesting to see how these two perform on apsc cameras. If the difference in the edge sharpness remains the same.
I used the 135 on my fujifilm X-T30 and was really happy with it actually. Everybody talks about speed boosters but I don’t mind the cropped in focal lengths on APS-C
they both look super imo :)
They totally are aren't they ;), SUPER TAK! ;)
Great lens test, great presentation. Nice & Perfect.
as always Mark, amazing video! and I really like your storytelling. I might add this lens to the wishlist in the near future, but I'm wondering if this lens also can be used as a macro lens?
Thanks mate! With some macro tubes MAYBE< but it's got such a distant min focusing distance that it might not work so well. Better off getting the SMC Takumar 100 mm Macro F4 if you want to get in closer.
@@MarkHoltze Alright! Takumar it is! thanks for the quick reply.
Good review, but it's a shame you didn't do the sharpness test stopped down as well. Maybe that corner softness disappears
Stopped down the sharpness is pretty much equal, for me ktd always a better test to test wide open because that’s where the optics tend to fall apart. The 5 And 6 at F4 are equal.
I bought a six elements in 40 dls, I my local store have 10 more!!! I just need takumar super multi coated 85mm to finish my collection!
I just acquirred a 5 element Super-Tak to match it to my K version (which uses the same takumar 6/6 formula). I was not really thrilled with the K 135/2.5 - I hope to get something good in the 5 element version.
Love your reviews. Keep me coming!
Thanks! I enjoy making them, glad you're enjoying them.
Always enjoy your videos. I wish my 105/2.8 was sharp wide open...
Thanks Tony! What lens is your 105?
Mark Holtze oops. Forgot to say. It’s a Super Tak m42 mount. I’m actually 3 weeks in a personal project during winter to take my mind off the cold. I’m testing a different vintage lens every week till spring.
So far I’ve done a 28/3.5 Super Takumar, Minolta 50/2, and just started the third lens.
I’m doing this on instagram- tonyreidsma
This is great man! Just followed along for the journey!
There are two possibly made the difference between these two lenses. Since these are used lenses, we don't know that they been took apart for cleaning . Put back together may make the difference if they are not professional job. Coating may contribute another major factor. I never pay attention on number of blades on the aperture. As the most important part is the lens itself.
Definitely a factor to consider, great points Lawrence! It's tough to know and we can only really test within the limitations on what we have and what history we known of the lenses themselves. These tests can't be fully scientific because of the factors you state for sure as well. Based on what I did notice, there was better control on CA in higher contrast areas on the 6 element, slightly better edge to edge sharpness. Again even based on that, without really going TOO deep into the pixel peeping, very few people would notice the difference.
Curious to know how these differences transferred on film as well, my guess is it wouldn't even be noticeable.
I think they are both great lenses. I guess the 5-elements has a little more micro-contrast due to one element less, that's a pro for portaits. the fact that it has a little more CA is for me nothing to worry about, you can fix it in post-processing. If you really need edge to edge sharpness the 6-elements is the one. There is no bad Takumar 135mm .......... they are only different for each occasion. BTW I also have both f/2.5's.
Ya I don’t mind CA either really. To some people it’s graffiti on their images. It’s good having done the tests because both have a place depending what I want to shoot.
the abberation is lateral, not medial. So I would say it's more of a out-of-focus character. You should test it at some shiny surface while they're in focus.
top video. very nice videography. keep on
Thanks Christian!
Love Your style man. Very unique. Keep it up. :)
Hi James, thanks mate! Appreciate it man.
Very good stuff, that's helpful, thanks!
Nice video.
I'm using a Super-Multi-Coated 135mm f3.5 on a Canon 80D.
So far, a very nice lens to use.
Might upgrade soon, but I'm only a beginner, so I probably won't be able to tell the difference... 🤣
I love your videos, and this one was very informative. It also got me wondering about the old Canon 135 f2.5 lenses. They look like potential bargains.
Thanks DJ, a friend of mine picked up the FD 135 2.5 and LOVES it. I think he paid $100 CND for it at the Camerama Camera show (one of the vintage sales I went to, I did a video on it, "what did I buy") I think is the title of that one.
So many great FD lenses at those things. I'd love to get my hands on one, compare it to the Super Tak.
Mark Holtze To be precise, the ones I have in mind are called "Super Canomatic", which I find unusual. Sounds very early 70s to me.
Great video Mark! What conference or event were you at? WAs it a vintage camera event or buy event?
Thanks! This event is a vintage camera fair. Vendors come from all over to sell their goods. Loads of fun. We have two big ones in Toronto every year, one coming up Oct 27th and one in the spring around May. Camerama which is a smaller event happens once every quarter for a total of 6 buy events per year in Toronto.
It's pretty cool! If you're in the area you should totally go. I'm going to document the one on the 27th coming up this month.
Quite a lot more sharpness on the 6 Element on the bricks. Can’t helping thinking from a non video view the vignetting in the older lens @2.5 would add nice drama for photography. That Bronica is stunning.
Honestly I like vignetting, so I don’t mind it. It’s easy enough to counter as well in both video and photo to remove it.
The Bronica has the most beautiful viewfinder. It’s the coolest! Can’t wait to shoot with it
@@MarkHoltze I like vignetting also Mark, its was a genuine (like test results) comment mate
Ya I was just in agreement. :) sincerity. :)
Thank you for the detailed information.
My pleasure :) Thanks for watching.
Fantastic Review Mark. Have you tried the Super Multi Coated 50mm Macro F4 by chance?
Nice video man! I'd love to hear your opinion on the 15 aperture blade Pentacon 135mm F2.8 (aka Meyer-Optik Orestor) if you can get your hands on one.
Will keep my eyes open! Thanks James!!!