Asahi Pentax SMC Takumar 105mm F/2.8

Specifications01

MountM42

Focal length105mm

Max aperturef/2.8

TypeCinema · Telephoto · Prime

Weight278 g

Filter size49 mm

Physical length63 mm

Min focus distance1.2 m

Max magnification0.1099

Aperture blades6

Optical elements5

Groups4

Lens hoodoptional, barrel-shaped

Additional Info02

Category["Vintage"]

Keywords["Pentax","Prime","Tele","Vintage"]

Review AuthorKlaus

Review VerdictThe Asahi Pentax SMC Takumar 105mm f/2.8 isn't a hidden gem among vintage lenses. However, it still has its merits. In terms of resolution, you shouldn't expect too much - especially on a high-megapixel full-frame sensor. The center resolution is actually pretty decent at f/2.8 but the contrast level is low and the outer image field is plain soft. The overall quality is pretty good at f/8 but that's not a miracle really. Image distortions and lateral CAs are very low. This can't be said about axial CAs (LoCA) which are quite extreme. If you are looking for a special vintage character you may find it in the bokeh. The Takumar produces highlight bubbles at f/2.8 and the highlight discs are actually pretty nice across the image field. The out-of-focus background blur is also very smooth. More so than the image quality, the primary joy of using this lens comes from its build quality. The metal body and buttery smooth control rings are simply superb. It's just something that you will appreciate immediately. Don't expect modern features such as weather sealing, of course. Needless to say, this is also a fully manual lens with all the pros and cons that come with it. It's not surprising that these old Asahi Pentax SMC Takumars have many fans out there. They offer a true vintage feel - more so than some other oldies that we have tested. In terms of sheer optical performance, you should lower your expectations though - at least with respect to the Asahi Pentax SMC Takumar 105mm f/2.8. It may be Ok on a 24mp body but higher megapixel cameras are a bit too much for it really. If you are just into 4K video (=8.3 megapixels) you can relax, of course - you can almost mount a coke bottle and still get sharp results.

Review Published2023-02-04T01:57:00+00:00

Optical Construction5 elements in 4 groups

Field Notes02

Asahi Pentax SMC Takumar 105mm F/2.8 for M42 screw mount. A short-tele prime intended for portrait and low-light use, with a maximum aperture of f/2.8.

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Catalog note · source: opticallimits

Sources03

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Other Mounts03

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