Production
1962 – 1971
Country
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Optical
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Updated
Feb 15, 2026
Pentax Super Takumar 55mm f/1.8
M42
Overview
The Super Takumar 55mm f/1.8 is one of the most beloved vintage lenses ever made — and one of the cheapest. Millions were produced as kit lenses for Spotmatic cameras, making them incredibly common and affordable. But don't let the low price fool you: this is a genuinely excellent lens with beautiful rendering.
Verdict: The best value in vintage lenses. At $20-50, the Super Takumar 55mm f/1.8 delivers beautiful images with real character. The perfect gateway lens into vintage photography.
Optical Character
Bokeh
Pleasing, smooth bokeh, though not as creamy as f/1.4 lenses due to the f/1.8 maximum aperture
Sharpness wide open
Not very sharp wide open, better at f/2 or f/2.8
Flare resistance
Struggles to handle bright light, exhibits flare and loss of contrast when facing the sun
Contrast
Medium-low contrast
Vignetting
Corners are not as sharp as the center
Community Insights
What people love
- Incredible value ($20-50)
- Beautiful rendering
- Warm vintage character
- Millions available
- Great gateway vintage lens
- 55mm is nice focal length
What people dislike
- Only f/1.8 (some want faster)
- Thorium yellowing
- 55mm needs different filters
- Very common — not 'special'
Sample Photos
Sources (2)
unknown-
https://jerfareza.camera/post/lens-review-asahi-pentax-takumar-55mm-f1-8
Lens Heritage 2nd JSONsecondary
The Super Takumar 55mm f/1.8 is one of the most beloved vintage lenses ever made — and one of the cheapest. Millions were produced as kit lenses for Spotmatic cameras, making them incredibly common and affordable. But don't let the low price fool you: this is a genuinely excellent lens with beautiful rendering.