Lomopedia: Asahi Pentax Takumar 50mm f1.4-18

Take apart the expensive packaging of high end lenses and what you have left are the glass components. Whether vintage or modern, these are the backbone of any camera lens that is worth trying out. Speaking of glass optics, we’re taking a quick look at the Asahi Pentax Takumar 50mm f1.4 prime lens and its near cult status when it comes to high quality glass optics.

The Takumar 50mm f1.4 is quite a fast lens when compared to other 50mm lenses in the same category. It came in two versions – 8 elements and 7 elements that can be considered at par with each other in terms of performance and aesthetics.

This is a sought-after lens due to the quality of images it can produce. The Takumar 50mm f1.4 lens produces crystal clear pictures that are popping with fine details and vibrant colors. Some cinematographers also use the lens for the characteristic vintage look it produces on video. For a compact prime lens that clocks in at an affordable price, it’s a bargain that photographers shouldn’t pass up on.

Although a number of Super Takumar lenses contain radioactive components due to thorium mixed in with the glass optics, the lenses aren’t necessarily a health risk so long as it is used responsibly and with care.

Asahi Pentax Takumar 50mm f1.4 Lens Technical Specifications:

Focal length: 50mm
Weight: 245g for 8 elements and 230g for 7 elements lens
Aperture: f1.4 to f16 with aperture ring, diaphragm of 6 automatic blades
Mount: M42
Closest focus: 45cm
Filter size: 49mm
Lens composition: 8 elements/7 elements in 6 groups, multi-coated lens
Focusing: Manual

Here are some photos taken with the Asahi Pentax Takumar 50mm f1.4 lens by our very own community members:

All information used in this article was sourced from Pentax Forums, Vintage Camera Lenses, Very Big Lobo and West End Camera Club.

2016-08-31 #lomopedia #lens #gear #mount #pentax #50mm #m42 #asahi #f1-4 #takumar #prime-lens #lomopedia #vintage-camera-lens