No photo available for this lens
Production
1965 – 1971
Country
Japan
Optical
6 elements in 4 groups
Updated
Jul 16, 2026
Pentax SMC Takumar 85mm f/1.8
M42 · 85mm · f/1.8
Compiled from 2 real reviews · AI-assisted · accuracy-checked · Updated 16 Jul 2026
Overview
The SMC Takumar 85mm f/1.8 is Pentax's portrait lens for M42 — fast, sharp, and with beautiful bokeh. Less famous than Canon or Nikon 85s, it quietly delivers exceptional results at a fraction of the price.
Verdict: The secret M42 portrait lens. Delivers results that rival more expensive alternatives. Highly recommended for portrait shooters.
Optical Character
Bokeh
Plenty of bokeh, but difficult to describe - both smooth and busy depending on the out of focus area. Negatively affected by chromatic aberration.
Color
Produces saturated, high contrast images, even wide open. Has a distinct vintage look.
Sharpness wide open
Sharpness is just about usable wide open, but not great. Performs better stopped down to around f/2.8.
Flare resistance
Flares are nothing special, but it still has a vintage feel to them.
Contrast
High contrast, higher than many vintage alternatives.
Vignetting
Present wide open.
Community Insights
What people love
- Excellent portrait lens
- Beautiful bokeh
- SMC coating
- Affordable
- Great subject separation
What people dislike
- Less famous than Canon/Nikon alternatives
- M42 needs adapter
- Can be hard to find
Compatible Adapters
Real adapters from our shop that fit this lens mount.
Standard · ฿325 · In stock
Standard · ฿325 · In stock
Standard · ฿325 · In stock
Standard · ฿325 · In stock
Standard · ฿540 · In stock
Standard · ฿540 · In stock
Standard · ฿540 · In stock
Standard · ฿540 · In stock
Standard · ฿540 · In stock
Standard · ฿1,250 · In stock
Standard · ฿890 · Out of stock
Standard · ฿890 · Out of stock
Sources (2)
Vintagelensesforvideo
Curated heritage archive
The secret M42 portrait lens. Delivers results that rival more expensive alternatives. Highly recommended for portrait shooters.