Takumar 55mm lenses. A guide to one of the best - and most eclectic - series of vintage M42 lenses.

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 ก.ค. 2024
  • Takumar 55mm lenses were very popular in the film era, and they remain popular and often much loved on today's digital cameras. They're excellent performers. A surprisingly large number of different versions were made between 1957 and 1974. This video looks at the differences between versions and discusses how they perform, supported by tests and many photos.
    Links to each section:
    00:00 Introduction
    02:21 A look at the lenses
    10:00 The earliest lenses
    12:29 Number of aperture blades
    13:35 Coatings, contrasts and colours
    16:03 Radioactive glass
    18:07 Minimum focusing distance
    18:40 Sharpness
    22:03 Bokeh
    25:13 Conclusions
    Link to my lens albums on Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/9585957...
    #takumar55mm #takumar #pentax
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ความคิดเห็น • 263

  • @Simonsutak
    @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Here are links to each section:
    00:00 Introduction
    02:21 A look at the lenses
    10:00 The earliest lenses
    12:29 Number of aperture blades
    13:35 Coatings, contrasts and colours
    16:03 Radioactive glass
    18:07 Minimum focusing distance
    18:40 Sharpness
    22:03 Bokeh
    25:13 Conclusions

  • @gregoryrogalsky6937
    @gregoryrogalsky6937 2 ปีที่แล้ว +40

    Back in the day when I worked at a camera store in Toronto. I recommended these Pentax Camera's and lenses to everyone just getting into photography. For the money they are still hard to beat. Great cameras and lenses.

    • @TheUrbanmeister
      @TheUrbanmeister 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Well said. The other thing I like is that lenses from years ago fit the modern cameras. As you say, great cameras and lenses.

  • @gamers-generation
    @gamers-generation 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +21

    I'm new to vintage lenses and I've gotta say... you do such a thorough and in-depth look at all of these, it's like watching a documentary. Thank you kind sir -- this must have been a real pain to edit!

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  9 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Thank you! And many thanks also for recognizing something that very few others have. These videos are a real pain in the xxxx to edit!

    • @gamers-generation
      @gamers-generation 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@Simonsutak No thanks necessary, your hard work has definitely shown here! As a (super small time) creator I know what you mean by pain, so once again thank you for your efforts!

  • @mogbaba
    @mogbaba 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    In 1990, I went to a camera shop in Norway. I had Canon EOS1000 in my mind. The shopkeeper recommended Pentax P30n.
    About 55s, I had already a dozen of 50ish lenses. Last summer in a user reviews about 55 1.8, a user said, if you don't have this lens, you are not a true Pentaxian. I was disappointed, with five Pentax bodies, and some 20 lenses, I am not a Pentaxian yet. So, I ran to Ebay, and found a Super Takumar 55 1.8 in good shape and reasonable price. It came from Japan, and it was clear that the lens had gone through CLA. Everything was perfect with the lens. I put it on my K1 MKII to test it, but it stayed there for several weeks. I like it more than my ST 50&1.4. It is a radio active lens and takes excellent pictures.

  • @bransoncarlton4939
    @bransoncarlton4939 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Simon thank you for your excellent series on vintage glass. You’re one of the few TH-camrs out there whom I find myself revisiting. Some of your videos I watched several times and I have never found fault with your recommendations or your evaluations. TH-cam should give you a badge of honor!

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you so much for posting this comment - which I've also been revisiting! It's very encouraging to read your kind words.

  • @armangurcell
    @armangurcell 2 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    There‘s nothing more satisfying than shooting with a good Takumar lens! Thank you for your extensive review :)

    • @MrCGangsta
      @MrCGangsta ปีที่แล้ว +1

      crazy how smooth my 135 is focusing after 50 years

  • @vergeben
    @vergeben 2 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    This collection of videos, in my opinion is a huge contribution to the heritage of photography. I am very glad to have access to a source of knowledge that is so well structured and that appears so reliable. I like the language a lot and I feel thankful towards the work and dedication that is beeing made to inform people about this beautiful part of photography.

  • @alexblaze8878
    @alexblaze8878 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Last week I finally snagged the 8-element Super Takumar 50mm 1.4-I am so impressed!
    Thank you for introducing me to this whole new world of vintage lenses!

  • @bradl2636
    @bradl2636 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    One of the best lens videos on TH-cam 👏

  • @jawats
    @jawats ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Simon,
    I do love the careful methodology of your analyses. You begin with your own hypotheses, and observations which support them, and then run through tests of the hypotheses. Very scientific, but also interestingly done.

  • @perjrgensen5660
    @perjrgensen5660 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thank to for all your great videoes on TH-cam and photos on Flickr. 🙏

  • @rodcummings3606
    @rodcummings3606 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Another excellent and informative video, delivered with such authority on the subject. So fascinating to learn the background history to the famous 55mm Takumar lenses. Like you, my first 35mm camera had a 55mm f1.8 lens. However, in this case it was the Pentax K-mount together with the KM camera. Just last year purchased an Auto-Takumar 55mm f2 and this is a surprisingly wonderful lens. Other similar lenses that I've purchased from this era have required a service, however not required for the Takumar and the smooth focus is a joy to behold. Good to know that only one lens model included Thorium. Always look forward to your next instalment.

  • @brandoboe
    @brandoboe 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Simon, I love these videos - it's exactly the type of nerdy-ness I enjoy in a gear review. I also appreciate all the example shots, as I think real-world results are much more impressive than the shots of still-life in the house.

  • @jimschmidt7303
    @jimschmidt7303 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent video as always. I adore the painterly flower pictures the 55mm f2 have given me. The colors especially the reds and yellows are jaw dropping. The background become very smooth. The thought of all these qualities has me longing for the coming spring bloom. I also have a 50 f1.4 which for me has produced a less desirable busy bokeh. Cheers.

  • @lucvangestel2123
    @lucvangestel2123 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very nice to see this, it gives me a smile, the beautiful lenses from all viewpoints, great work - thank you very much.

  • @jessevillanueva1425
    @jessevillanueva1425 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Glad to see a comprehensive review of the 55mm Takumar :) :) :)

  • @benjaminheron6319
    @benjaminheron6319 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I appreciate your well-researched presentations and thorough testing. Thanks for sharing your wealth of experience and knowledge.

  • @tinyfilms
    @tinyfilms 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video with excellent info and thoughtful perspective. You confirmed how I feel about several of these!

  • @dingothps
    @dingothps 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent video! I own a Super-Takumar 55/1.8 myself and its one of my favourite lenses. Great to see more information abour the series, thank you.

  • @achaycock
    @achaycock ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for these videos. I really enjoy your in-depth look into the lenses coupled with a wealth of experience. I'm in my 40's and have only discovered the joys of photography this year and I have the excellent Pentax cameras to thank for learning the basics of manual photography. This year will be my first foray into film photogrtaphy and these manual primes are of more interest to me now than ever before.

  • @dlyon9673
    @dlyon9673 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for this thoughtful, well-made and interesting review. I very much enjoy your videos, despite, or perhaps due to, their encouragement of my lens buying addiction!

  • @ohjajohh
    @ohjajohh 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    My Takumar 55 f2 is also one of my favorite lenses. It's so smooth and the quality is so good! I compared it to quite a few other lenses on my channel, but the Takumar is always the winner.

  • @alexblaze8878
    @alexblaze8878 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I’ve watched every video of your m42 videos and probably watched every Takumar video at least twice! Love your Flickr photos! I’m now a certified fanatic of Takumar lenses.

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Many thanks, I really appreciate your kind words.

  • @JohnJohn-ju4gw
    @JohnJohn-ju4gw ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A most excellent presentation in every way. As an owner of a number of Takuma/ Pentax lenses I appreciate the care with which this video was prepared. So I am subscribed.

  • @willlund2185
    @willlund2185 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for this! Your videos always make me want to walk around and find good light to work with.
    For me, I have the SMC 55 f2. Love it. It's small, but has the smoothest focus of any vintage lens I have.
    I also have the SMC 50 f1.4 - I like it too, but it's really only sharp around the very center. Not practical in many applications.
    Keep up the great work.

  • @messylaura
    @messylaura 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    another excellent and informative video Simon, i have the 55mm ƒ1.8 super takumar, my very first vintage lens i got about a year ago, i had only gotten back into photography in the last two years
    the takumar 55mm is such a nice lens for all the reasons mentioned, maybe only over shadowed by the smoothness of your voice,
    with an addition of an extension tube its close up images are incredibly sharp,
    the camera i use is the M50 so there is the 1.6 crop of the field of view
    Thank you for the time and effort or should i say the time and pleasure of making these in depth videos on the various models of the similar lenses.

  • @zhee.
    @zhee. 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Thanks for the video! It just happened, that yesterday I accidentally bought the radioactive Takumar and after awesome experience of using it today, this video popped up. Yes, I can confirm, that this is one of the best ~50mm lens from my 15+ collection that I ever used.

  • @christopherward5065
    @christopherward5065 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I started my Pentax journey with a Pentax MX and that was brilliant. I was just about to go off to university. The MX is still a very zen machine that is tiny but mighty. About five years later my friend who ran a photographic shop introduced me to the Spotmatic. What was great about that was that I could buy M42 lenses for next to nothing. The Takumars were available with cases and hoods for £15 to £25 and I was blown away by the images I was producing. The 55mm F1.8, the 35mm F2, the 28mm f3.5, the 24mm f3.5, the 85mm f1.8, the 135 f3.5 all absolutely superb. I had a few spotmatics and then I got an SV! I made so many great images especially on Ilford, Kodak and latterly Fuji black and white negative films. The lenses were absolutely stellar. Brilliant sharpness, tonal discrimination and edge acuity. I found a 200f4 and it too was a showstopper. I used a lot of that glass with an SV and a digital incident/spot meter by Sekonic and produced prints for publications and my exhibitions. I still use Takumars and various K-mount SMC Pentax lenses they make great digital images with 3D plasticity and superb rendering. I do consider the SMC Takumar 55mm and the Super Takumars to be completely valid on digital images. I have a 55mm SMC Pentax-K f1.8 and it has that Pixie-dust image rendering that makes images with 3D pop. I have a few 55mm m42 Takumars and they are tremendous lenses. There is so much to admire in what they do. Thanks for doing this review Simon, I still get excited by what Pentax glass can do. Opening an image in Lightroom reveals just how powerful the lenses are.

    • @av8bvma513
      @av8bvma513 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yup. What he said.

  • @johnmehalick
    @johnmehalick 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I enjoy the education on the old lens. Just pick up the SMC Takumar 1.4 50 Macro. for my digital camera. Also, picked up a Fotasy Helicod M42 to FE mount to attach to my camera. Now I just need some good weather to test it out. I always enjoy your videos.

  • @1960ceramic
    @1960ceramic 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I also wanted to thank you, Simon, for putting these very thorough videos together. I like that you are objective when talking about each lens in each video, and that you merely highlight the pros and cons of each lens. I have the Super Takumar 55 1.8 and really love this lens as it goes with my 24 3.5, 35 2.0, 85 1.9 and 135 2.5 (6 element) lenses. I now have a complete set of Takumars that I will cherish for the rest of my life! The other thing I wanted to mention is that your comparison images for lenses are amazing! Every time I watch one of your videos and see some of your images I keep thinking of new perspectives to shoot from! Thank you for all of this! Cheers from British Columbia, Canada!

  • @aeomaster32
    @aeomaster32 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I am impressed with your presentation and especially with your narration. Professional all around.

  • @dariussmith8313
    @dariussmith8313 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for all the great information and detail.

  • @dalbrisco
    @dalbrisco 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Currently laid up sick in bed, which was a plus as i came across your videos. Very informative and i learnt a few things i didn't know. Can't wait to get out there with a few Tak's in my kit.

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Sorry to read read about your sickness. Many thanks for your kind words and hope you get well soon!

  • @user-id2bm9hw3i
    @user-id2bm9hw3i หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Very glad I went for the Auto 55 f2.2 Thanks

  • @user-bg1yd1fg8f
    @user-bg1yd1fg8f 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Since my retirement 10 years ago I rediscovered my super takumar 1.8. I use it always in combination with a also 50 years old bellow for macro photography. The results are excellent ! Thank you for the very clear review of all these lenses.

  • @tomaspofilms
    @tomaspofilms 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thanks for a detailed review. It was really interesting to see all of them compared. I made a review on 55 f2 Auto-Takumar, and I was pleasantly suprised that an f2 lens can give such a nice and creamy bokeh, but be sharp at the same time :)

  • @paulgood2218
    @paulgood2218 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I think I just asked about the best of these lens yesterday on another of your videos. And well you already covered it thank you !

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yes - apologies for not getting back. I did read your question and was going to direct you here, but got distracted!

    • @paulgood2218
      @paulgood2218 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@Simonsutak I bought a Pentax h1 with a 55mm f2.2 auto in unknown condition on eBay last night . Hoping the lens is as good condition as it looks in the picture. It was about $30 seemed very good price . Thank you again love the videos

  • @imagohouse7412
    @imagohouse7412 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Bro your voice is as good as your reviews. Calming and just makes me feel relaxed. Great job!

    • @garyolson2676
      @garyolson2676 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      His particular accent and tone sound almost identical to David Cornwell, the real name of the great writer John LeCarré. It’s beautifully cultured in that special British way. I’d be interested to know a bit about Simon’s background, although it really has nothing to do with wonderful lens videos!

  • @douglasanderson153
    @douglasanderson153 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Your presentation and examination of Pentax gear is Scion’s to none Simon. I thoroughly enjoy listening to your assessments

  • @freeman10000
    @freeman10000 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a couple of these 55mm Takumars. Both with film and digital they are absolutely magic.

  • @ozzyj94
    @ozzyj94 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    5 years ago I purchased a near mint Spotmatic SP that came with one of these Super-Multi-Coated lenses for around 55 USD. Sadly since buying it I've only shot 4 rolls of film and still haven't gotten around to having any of it developed but watching this was very informative and I appreciate all the details. Hopefully soon I can get those rolls of film developed to see what came out of it. Thanks again

  • @oceanicstorm
    @oceanicstorm 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for an interesting watch and informative data on these lens.

  • @samsen3965
    @samsen3965 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for the priceless and valuable content. Loved it.

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      So glad you liked it.

  • @keith2599
    @keith2599 ปีที่แล้ว

    WOW What a fantastic review of all these retro lenses from this go to guy.... AWESOME... AWESOME... AWESOME...

  • @125farin
    @125farin 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What a fantastic interesting video. Just wanted to say thanks for all your great work. Regards David

  • @fares_of_arabia
    @fares_of_arabia ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I love this video, I watched it so many times. I bought the S-M-C 55mm 1.8.....and love it

  • @xiaodu87
    @xiaodu87 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice video! I've got the Super Multicoated Takumar 55mm f1.8 last September and I love it. Did some pictured during autumn vacation and it's just so good.
    Thanks for sharing the info about the other Takumars 55mm as well. The older look super cool, too!

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Many thanks - great to hear your compliments for your lens too!

  • @sundarAKintelart
    @sundarAKintelart 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Superb. I understand you have invested lot of time and effort, which i appreciate so much. Very detailed one to date. Thank you.

  • @av8bvma513
    @av8bvma513 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Congratulations. Very, very comprehensive. Excellent mix of facts and feelings. 100% agree on all points raised. Recommendation? "Buy 'em all! They ain't made no more!" Use 'em all, and enjoy 'em all.

  • @mariomissagia4976
    @mariomissagia4976 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for your generosity in sharing so much information. With someone who uses an H3, I'm very happy to know more about my camera and lens.
    Thanks

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You are so welcome!

  • @raymondjohnson3479
    @raymondjohnson3479 ปีที่แล้ว

    Boy, that was something else! Thank you.

  • @steverobinson9801
    @steverobinson9801 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    The first camera that I bought for myself was the Pentax SV with the Super Takumar 55mm ƒ1.8 in 1964. I used this camera for many years until I went digital in 2007. Now I have the K-mount 55 ƒ1.8 on my K-1. Thanks for the very nice review of these lenses. l see your images on Flickr too.

  • @1973sonvis
    @1973sonvis 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Fabulous video! 😊👍🏻

  • @TheoDahlemPickups
    @TheoDahlemPickups 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Like always, great informative videos without the narcissistic self exposure that many other dudes present on their videos. Nothing wrong with that but I prefer straight on topic presentations. Been a subscriber for quite a while and definitely enjoy learning. On an other note, I luckily found a Super Takumar 55mm 1,8 on a flee market last sunday. The aperture is almost stuck and only turns w. brute force. The focus ring is hard to turn as well but I know some guy who can fix it. I'm very impressed by the image quality of this lens when paired w. my Fujifilm X-E4. Thanks bunches Simon. Keep up the great work.

  • @dangerdarce
    @dangerdarce ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is so awesome. Thank you!

  • @neilyakuza6595
    @neilyakuza6595 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love your content on the Pentax lenses. I love Pentax m42 lenses. They focus smooth, sharp, and feel great in the hand. Built well.

  • @northstar1950
    @northstar1950 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My first quality camera was a Pentax Spotmatic II with the Super Multi Coating f 1.8 lens. I payed a little extra for a black body, I still have it and use it too along with a used version of the Spotmatic . I recently bought a later version of the lens with the rubber focus ring for attachment to a used Sony a7 I recently acquired. Back in the 70s the Pentax was up there with the best. This is by far the best Takumar review I have seen, thank you.

  • @raymeedc
    @raymeedc 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Did a walkaround today with one of my all time favorite lenses on my Fujifilm X-T2, that being the 55mm Zebra Takumar, coincidentally coming across this video again upon my return. Love The Taks, especially the 55s, of which I have a copy of every m42 version, including the 58mm & earliest m37 mounts.

  • @billkennon319
    @billkennon319 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I had no idea the lens I used in the '70s was radioactive! I am an old, long-time Pentax user and started with the Pentax Spotmatic F and the 55mm f1.8 was my first lens. This is a great review. Thank you!

  • @mountagung
    @mountagung ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Fascinating review. I owned a few of tak & supertak

  • @luketan5347
    @luketan5347 ปีที่แล้ว

    thank you for your reviews!

  • @samuellagraciaizumiabarque3212
    @samuellagraciaizumiabarque3212 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    this made me love my auto takumar 55 f2 more ❤️

  • @MichaelRusso
    @MichaelRusso ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have been shooting with the latest auto-Takumar 1.8 version. I am very impressed with it's sharpness and contrast.

  • @vonjuan5549
    @vonjuan5549 ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing info. and presentation:)

  • @PikPikkabbu
    @PikPikkabbu ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very interesting job. Thanks a lot.

  • @zenon.zen.billings9872
    @zenon.zen.billings9872 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    i bought my 28mm f3.5 50 years ago brand new. went through 3 succeeding versions of pentax bodies before changing to medium format. so the 28, along with the 50, sat on a shelf for all these years. bought an adapter 6 months ago and now fallen in love with the 28 once again , this time on my panasonic S5 full frame body. nice seeing your images taken in china. thank you. zen billings in canada.

  • @gregmarcus3064
    @gregmarcus3064 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Superb video. Thank you very much.

  • @MrSgurlen
    @MrSgurlen ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for extensive explanations...

  • @antoniobalonio8442
    @antoniobalonio8442 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent watch as per usual Simon, lots of Tak bling, you have a lot to answer for Simon, my wife looks at my vintage kit and especially the flight case of neatly positioned Tak lenses from 20mm to 200mm and often asks what they all cost, I love being able to say ‘all together’ less than my single standard zoom on my camera 👌🤠

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Ha!!! That's precisely how I've justified my Takumar lenses to my wife. And I've pointed out that one lens (a cheaper one admittedly) costs less than a replacement lens cap for one new Pentax PK lens....

  • @bradmiller9993
    @bradmiller9993 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a few Takumars; and I will continue to buy them as they feel so good in the hand and produce such lovely images. I was interested to see your take on the black and white rendering because I noticed it by accident a couple of years ago and will continue to experiment with what it can do......very cool stuff. Thanks.

  • @d30gaijin
    @d30gaijin 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Information truly worth sharing. Thank you! I have been sorting through my Takumar lenses collected over the years and stuffed away. Now I am hauling them out. 2 are Super-Takumar 55/1.8 (sr: 3473295) and SMC Takumar (sn: 5604261). I think it's also time to start listing serial numbers of the Takumars we own should someone someday wish to start a database of such. While I own a couple of older Honeywell Pentax Spotmatic cameras (both in mint condition) I am not much of a film guy anymore. But I do shoot my Takumar lenses on my Sony A6600. Good stuff!

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      There's a database on Pentax Forums if you're interested - www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-serial-number-database/?do=viewserials&id=88

  • @user-ec7rg3on3g
    @user-ec7rg3on3g 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I really appreciate your hard work and enthusiasm. You need to write a book and document all of this along with some pictures. I will be the first one to buy it. Happy to work on editing it with you in duringy free time:)

  • @jameswburke
    @jameswburke 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Bought my lovely old Pentax ME Super in 1981 for a photography degree course. It came with a 50mm f1.7 SMC lens. Got my degree with it and sold my degree show B&W pics to a magazine afterwards. It's a very sharp and small lens which I use on my Canon DSLR and Sony A7 bodies. You can still get ME Supers with these lenses on and adapters for PK to Canon or Sony etc. Another excellent Pentax lens is the 50mm f4 'macro' which is 1:2 so half life size at the macro end. Amazingly sharp and versatile lens.

  • @einarlandre5386
    @einarlandre5386 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for a great video. The SMC Takumar 55mm f1.8 from 1972 was my first lens paired with my Spotmatic f. All acquired when I was 15. Unfortunately I sold it ... Regret that now so I have got a mint version of the K mount version...

  • @brotherdom1
    @brotherdom1 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Excellent and detailed .Im a Nikon die hard but im going for an adaptor to try some pentax gear.Thank you for this very informative video and one can only imagine all the effort in makeing of.

  • @palmereldrich
    @palmereldrich ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey!- just a quick comment on how much i will enjoy watching this video later; my fondest beginner photographer involved the sublime 70-200mm F/4 zoom Takumar- Soft blur Bokeh with fantastical colour renditions.
    Worst thing i ever did was sell my 35 stuff and I plan on hunting down some of those old Pentax primes which this presentation will greatly enhance SO thanks !!!
    Anticipation strokes the flame of expectation which either flies or falls upon what YOUR word expresses- -no pressure !!
    Lol.

  • @blood_n_guts_murphy
    @blood_n_guts_murphy ปีที่แล้ว

    Fascinating video. Especially to learn that my yellowed Takumars might not be radioactive after all. Thanks. Edit: after a re-watch I have decided to buy your favourite one for that radioactive goodness. Bidding begun.

  • @ArminHirmer
    @ArminHirmer ปีที่แล้ว

    that was deep and very interesting. thank you

  • @HienBuiMobile
    @HienBuiMobile ปีที่แล้ว +3

    For some reason, I feel more attracted to the radioactive lens

  • @fricki1997
    @fricki1997 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I'll take a Takumar over just about any bulky modern standard prime. They just feel absolutely beautiful, all the Takumar lenses I have still have perfectly smooth focussing without the need for regreasing. And the 55/1.8 in particular is super cheap.

  • @22fret
    @22fret ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've got the K-mount 1.8/55, and I love it to bits...

  • @jkarlsonsrv
    @jkarlsonsrv 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The 55 is one of my favorite lenses for digital use. I got the 1960 auto takumar 1.8 for one dollar after pulling it out of a box of random rubbish at a camera store in California. Clean glass and fully functional.

  • @DANVIIL
    @DANVIIL ปีที่แล้ว

    Well done !

  • @pkeiths1594
    @pkeiths1594 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Another top quality video Thank you...Myself as of yet hasn't used any Pentax gear, looking to rectify that soon as my Yashica fetish subsides.

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      The Yashica Auto Yashinon 5cm f2 looks very similar to the Auto-Takumars, but the rendering is different!

  • @kevmoiz1718
    @kevmoiz1718 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    "Great vids from a collectors point of view! thanks for creating these informative video's
    I have just bought a pentax es2, a semi auto film camera that needs an smc lens to use the aperture priority, so I'm waiting for the smc 55mm f2 to turn up, look forward to playing around with it!👍

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you and happy lens hunting!

  • @califmike2003
    @califmike2003 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I just got my SMC 50mm f1.4 and it renders lovely, may have to try the 55mm also.

  • @trinityharbour7054
    @trinityharbour7054 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    You have a fabulous collection of these!

    • @trinityharbour7054
      @trinityharbour7054 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I will add that this is your best video yet. You're becoming very good at this!

    • @trinityharbour7054
      @trinityharbour7054 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      My favourite 55mm Pentax is the f2.2 Auto Takumar.

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you so much. Doing this one felt like it was a love letter to my Takumar 55s! It's where my total enjoyment in photography all began.

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, it's a wonderful old lens. Indeed, the Auto-Takumar 55mm f2.2 was the second Takumar 55mm I acquired - after the S-M-C. I bought it in July 2013 - a long time after first using the S-M-C as a kid in 1972/3. I liked the results from the Auto-Takumar so much I started collecting the lenses - starting with the Auto-Takumar 55mm f2. And the rest is history...

  • @Ole_Mercool
    @Ole_Mercool 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you for the review! I used to shoot fashion with SPII and ESII with Super--Multi-Coated and SMC Takumars. Both lenses are just fantastic! To be honest, If I looked at the images now I would't tell the difference. As to the radioactivity, please don't try to scare us: it is so insignificant, that doesn't fog the fastest film even if you leave it in the camera for weeks! I had another radioactive lens - a huge 7"/F2.5 Kodak Aero Ektar with almost brown glass. I shot jewellery and watches for Vanity Fair and Vogue magazines. The lens was taken from a WWII American bomber plane. It was the most beautifully drawing dreamy lens I have ever had. May be you are right: because of radioactivity?

  • @Skipsul
    @Skipsul 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just got an old SMC 35mm with thoriated glass. Wonderful lens.

  • @ianharper6015
    @ianharper6015 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for a very interesting video.

  • @DJTI99
    @DJTI99 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have the SMC 1.8 and I love it, especially for video.

  • @henrysteadman963
    @henrysteadman963 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What a fine, thorough and informative study and presentation, and my own experience with a super Takumar f2 and a super multi coated Takumar f1.8 corresponds exactly with all of your findings and comments.
    I also thoroughly agree what a big difference that extra 5mm focal length makes to a standard 50, it seems much more natural and less distorted at closer distances.
    In fact, it was these 55mm Takumar that led me to my favourite vintage lens, the Minolta PF 58mm f1.4 2nd generation with Takumar-like hills & valleys focusing ring, and usefully just slightly larger and therefore more comfortable in my hands than the Takumar which can feel a little fiddly especially when my hands get cold.
    But I love using them all and am always left with the sense of wonder at the qualities of engineering and optical character of these optical gems… just BEAUTIFUL!
    Well done :)

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you! After our correspondence, I purchased a Minolta adapter and separately a MC Rokkor PF 55mm f1.7 for £19 (it cost less than the adapter). I am enjoying the lens immensely. Great value for money. And since I have the adapter, and the 55mm was so cheap, I decided to buy a PF 2nd generation 58mm f1.4 as well. It should arrive early next week, if it's no good I'll try to send you the bill :-)

    • @henrysteadman963
      @henrysteadman963 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Simonsutak haha... I'm so pleased that you're giving the Minoltas another look, and for my own part I've ordered a Tomioka Auto Revuenon 55mm f/1.4 M42 mount, and although not an f1.2 like yours, the version I'm trying is reputed to use the thoriated glass and I think that yo have a point in believing they just have 'something' to offer... other than radiation ha! Wot fun!!

  • @shred3005
    @shred3005 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I owe my photography to the Takumar 55mm. The Spotmatic II with a 55mm Takumar is exactly what my 14yrs older brother had and it fascinated me so much as a boy that I wanted to get into photography and lead to me receiving my first SLR for my 18th birthday from my parents.

  • @alexanderjamesl4868
    @alexanderjamesl4868 ปีที่แล้ว

    Got the super-multi-coated 55m 1,8 the other day as I was drawn by the focus ring! It looks almost identical to my K mount 55 1.8 of the same optical design, but the colours are a touch warmer even with auto white balance which seems to help with the greens on my Sony A7 mk1, and the operation of the lens is somewhat smoother and more satisfying. The aperture ring notably feels better.

  • @simonjones8111
    @simonjones8111 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I got my Pentax Spotmatic for my 14th birthday with a 55mm f1.8 lens, to which I added 2 more Super Takumars, 28 and 135mm f3.5’s. Loved all of them, although I wish I had been able to afford the 200mm f4.0!

    • @Simonsutak
      @Simonsutak  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      The 200mm f4 on the Spotmatic was really fun! I inherited my 200mm, otherwise it would have been too expensive for me (and my Mum) too. Not so long ago, these Takumar 200mm's were selling on-line for a pittance.

  • @johannesc.schmidt2054
    @johannesc.schmidt2054 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    One thing to keep in mind is that (as you say) a lot of the high end Takumar lenses from that era had radioactive back elements. Not necessarily a problem, but something good to know when working with these old lenses. I own a couple of these lenses and the Geiger Counter goes crazy close to them. So you can use these lenses, but I wouldn't put them under my pillow for sleeping 😄

  • @barrycohen311
    @barrycohen311 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good series mate... I have the SMC 55 f/1.8 version. It's a great all around lens...

  • @yanix9005
    @yanix9005 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have the Auto Takumar 55mm f1.8 (zebra). Its beautiful, especially if you consider how long its been around. One of the first lenses I bought when I started down this expensive path. Bought it more for how it looked , ended up loving the bokeh on it.

    • @messylaura
      @messylaura 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      have you tried the pentacon 50mm ƒ1.8, it just beats the takumar for bokeh,

  • @gearhead-quarters30
    @gearhead-quarters30 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've got the 58 f2, the zebra, the auto takumar, and a super multi coated. I love the zebra and the 58mm. I'm all about the bokeh, and that sonnar is very interesting.

  • @Klaus-macht-Bilder_de
    @Klaus-macht-Bilder_de 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this great overview and comparison
    I boght the 72 SMC Takomar 1974 together with my Spotmatic F and used it a lot as I stayed at M42 until 2002 (using 2 ESII later too). I am not sure whether I had the SMC 50/1.4 for M42 too.
    Later I ran K-Mounts with a M50/1.4 some time...even to the digital SLR periode which starts for me in 2007 using the K10.
    Today on my digital K3 & K1 I usually use the DA55/1.8 (AF) and if I really want to have old 50/55mm glas today I got a Jena Tessar type 50/2.8 (not the same lens but the sysme iype I used from 72 until I switched to Pentax. On Film -if used - usually I use the 67.. and 55s there is a completely different story ;-)