Fuji Fuji 55mm f1.6 Heritage

Overview

The Fujinon 55mm f1.6 is a standard fast prime from Fuji's film-era SLR lineup. The reviews describe two distinct lenses sharing this specification: an older M42 screw-mount version made for Fuji's early SLR cameras, and a newer X-Fujinon 55mm f1.6 associated with the later Fuji AX mount system. According to one reviewer, both are Xenotar-type formulations with five elements in four groups, and are described as 'probably the fastest Xenotar types ever made,' though the two versions do not share identical element parameters. Importantly, the M42 version is noted for having a 'unique bokeh' that the newer X-Fujinon version does NOT exhibit. The M42 example is described as a modest lens in terms of build, using a lot of plastic. The Fuji AX-mount version was received and tested by a Pentax Forums member who compared it directly to a Super Takumar 55mm f1.8. No established nicknames or community jargon are evidenced in the reviews. The lens attracts interest chiefly as a 'cult lens' (per one reviewer) among vintage-lens enthusiasts, especially for the unique bokeh of the M42 variant and its status as an unusually fast Xenotar-type standard lens.

Verdict: The Fujinon 55mm f1.6 is a fast Xenotar-type standard lens best appreciated by vintage-lens enthusiasts who value character over build quality. The M42 screw-mount version is the one to seek for its noted unique bokeh, while the newer X-Fujinon f1.6 is a different, sharper-classic option that lacks that signature rendering. It is sharp and delivers slightly cool colors; it suits collectors and adapters who want an uncommon fast fifty, but the plastic build and version confusion mean buyers should know exactly which variant they are getting.

Optical Character

Bokeh

The M42 version has a 'unique bokeh' (specifics undescribed), while the newer X-Fujinon version does not share it.

Color

Slightly cooler than typical Pentax colors, correctable in-camera or post.

Sharpness wide open

Described simply as 'sharp' when adapted to a Pentax body; no detailed center-vs-corner assessment.

Community Insights

What people love

The unique bokeh of the M42 screw-mount version, which sets it apart from the newer X-Fujinon version.
Its sharpness, as noted by a tester who adapted the AX-mount version.
The classic 55mm standard focal length, described by one user as automatically one of his favorite focal lengths.
Its status as a fast Xenotar-type formulation, reportedly among the fastest Xenotar types ever made.

What people dislike

The M42 version's modest, plastic-heavy build quality.
Colors that render slightly cooler than some users prefer (though considered easily fixable).
The newer X-Fujinon 55mm f1.6 lacking the unique bokeh of the M42 version, which may disappoint buyers expecting the same character.

Pro Tips

If you specifically want the unique bokeh, seek the older M42 screw-mount version rather than the newer X-Fujinon.
Expect a slightly cool color cast; correct white balance in-camera or in post as one tester did.
Adapts readily to other bodies (a tester used the AX-mount version on a Pentax body for comparison against a Super Takumar 55mm f1.8).

Sources (1)

Web-grounded synthesissecondary

The Fujinon 55mm f1.6 is a standard fast prime from Fuji's film-era SLR lineup. The reviews describe two distinct lenses sharing this specification: an older M42 screw-mount version made for Fuji's early SLR cameras, and a newer X-Fujinon 55mm f1.6 associated with the later Fuji AX mount system. According to one reviewer, both are Xenotar-type formulations with five elements in four groups, and are described as 'probably the fastest Xenotar types ever made,' though the two versions do not share identical element parameters. Importantly, the M42 version is noted for having a 'unique bokeh' that the newer X-Fujinon version does NOT exhibit. The M42 example is described as a modest lens in terms of build, using a lot of plastic. The Fuji AX-mount version was received and tested by a Pentax Forums member who compared it directly to a Super Takumar 55mm f1.8. No established nicknames or community jargon are evidenced in the reviews. The lens attracts interest chiefly as a 'cult lens' (per one reviewer) among vintage-lens enthusiasts, especially for the unique bokeh of the M42 variant and its status as an unusually fast Xenotar-type standard lens.

https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/130-lens-sample-photo-archive/419515-fujinon-55mm-f1-6-dm-fuji-ax-mount.htmlhttps://toby-marshall.com/galleries/bokeh-tales/fujinon-55mm-f1-6/