- the serial number (less then 158XXXX)
Lens has been Clean Lubricated and Adjusted.
Lens elements have:
- No scratches
- No fog or haze
- No fungus
Cosmetically, the lens is in excellent condition. Minor faint scratches and some brassing on high points evident. See photos.
The focus is smooth and free. Aperture functions nicely as it should with no oil on blades.
Very nice copy and is now hard to come by especially in excellent condition such as this. Due to age, most examples of this lens have scratches on the front and/or rear elements. This one does not!
Background to the Takumar 50mm f1.4 lenses
The Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 (eight element) is the first variant of a series of 50mm lenses produced by the Asahi Optical Co.. The Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 (eight element) variant was produced from 1964 to 1965. It has a cemented triplet element group behind the aperture iris rather than the doublet found in latter variants.
Conversely, the Super Takumar/ SMC 50mm f1.4 (seven element) versions had numerous variants. These variants had radioactive thorium included in a cemented doublet element group; whereas the eight element had none. The rare-earth metal incorporated into this design was used to improve the refractive index of the rear element assembly; thus offer better correction of spherical aberration. Perhaps this was needed to compensate for the loss of an element. The latter 'radioactive' variants have the unfortunate habit of developing yellow tint/ cast in the affected element, which can influence image quality.
The purpose of Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 (eight element) design was to compete with the Zeiss planar design; a lens known for its sharpness. The design produced a more consistent sharpness across the entire full frame image, including borders and corners, in comparison with the seven element design. Some argue that the Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 (eight element) design performs better with respect to rendering out of focus areas in front of and behind the focal plane, although this is a matter of taste. The improved bokeh is a consequence of a shallower depth of field achieved in the Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 (eight element) design, which is especially evident in wide open aperture settings.
The eight element has the disadvantage of older lens coatings, thus negatively impacting on contrast. Therefore, the use of a hood is critical in managing this failing in the lens.
The Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 (eight element) is far rarer than the latter versions and is harder still to acquire in good condition. Many have scratched rear elements and, to a lesser extent, scratched front elements. Moderate to severe scratches can have noticeable adverse impact on image quality - so avoiding these copies is important.
If you are interested in seeing a comparison or tow between the 8 element and 7 element variants I am happy to oblige.
Note to international buyers: Please message me to check the postage + tracking cost with me BEFORE completing purchase. Tracking is extra and unfortunately varies between countries. Item will not be sent if tracking NOT paid for. I reserve the right to cancel the purchase if tracking NOT paid for. Thanks for your understanding.