Lens Info - Asahi Super Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f1.4
Asahi Super Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f1.4
The Asahi Super Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 lens is a legendary manual focus lens that gained popularity in it’s time for its exceptional optical performance. Now it’s praised for it’s vintage character, filmic look and soft bokeh. Manufactured by Asahi Optical Co. from 1971 to 1972, the lens is part of the Super-Multi-Coated Takumar series, known for its superb multilayer coating that minimizes flare and ghosting, resulting in sharp and contrast-rich images. You’ll notice that this lens doesn’t have the halation seen on lenses without quality optical coatings. With a wide maximum aperture of f1.4, the lens excels in low-light conditions, allowing photographers to capture stunning images with a shallow depth of field. The solid build quality, smooth focusing ring, and distinctive aesthetic contribute to its enduring popularity among vintage lens enthusiasts. The Asahi Super Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 remains a cherished classic, sought after for its optical brilliance.
The Asahi Super Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f1.4 lens, like some other vintage lenses from the mid-20th century, incorporates thorium oxide in its glass elements. Thorium was used as a component in lens glass to enhance the refractive index and improve optical performance, particularly in terms of reducing chromatic aberrations and enhancing overall image quality. However, it's important to note that thorium glass poses potential health risks due to its radioactive nature. Over time, thoriated lenses can develop a yellowish tint, commonly referred to as "yellowing" or "yellow thorium," which does affect the color rendition of photographs. Despite the potential concerns associated with radioactivity, the risk to users is generally considered low during normal use. Photographers and collectors often appreciate the unique characteristics and vintage appeal of thoriated lenses and they take excellent photos and make for interesting stories. The “yellowing” of the glass can be reversed by exposing the glass to UV light.
LENS SPECS
Released Date: 1971
Format: 35mm
Mount: M42
Filter: 49mm
Aperture Blades: 8
Aperture Range: 1.4 - 16
Min Focus Distance: 0.45 m
Weight 220g
Optical Design: 7 elements in 6 groups
Gear Shots
Simon's utak - Takumar 50mm f1.4 is one of the very best vintage lenses. Here's a review of the four M42 versions.
Zeek. - The Super-Takumar 50mm F/1.4 is Amazing! | Lens Review [2021]
