Comparing vintage 28mm lenses

[robin0112358]

We've discussed the lack of 28mm prime lenses in a few threads. It's not just Panasonic, many contemporary digital systems seem to overlook this most useful focal length.

For some time I've been meaning to compile my experiences of using vintage lenses on the S-5 and have finally finished this task. I can't remember who's been part of the correspondence so far, but hopefully all interested readers will find this new thread and chime in!

These are the lenses I compared:

• smc PENTAX 1:2 28mm (1976)
• Carl Zeiss Distagon T* 28mm f/2.8 (1978) for Contax-Yashica mount
• Kino Precision Kiron 28mm f/2 MC (1981)
• Vivitar 28mm 1:2.0 MC Close Focus (1983) made by Komine
• SMC PENTAX-A 28mm f/2.8 (1984)

Read the full article on my blog.

 

[Travis Butler]

We've discussed the lack of 28mm prime lenses in a few threads. It's not just Panasonic, many contemporary digital systems seem to overlook this most useful focal length.

For some time I've been meaning to compile my experiences of using vintage lenses on the S-5 and have finally finished this task. I can't remember who's been part of the correspondence so far, but hopefully all interested readers will find this new thread and chime in!

These are the lenses I compared:

• smc PENTAX 1:2 28mm (1976)
• Carl Zeiss Distagon T* 28mm f/2.8 (1978) for Contax-Yashica mount
• Kino Precision Kiron 28mm f/2 MC (1981)
• Vivitar 28mm 1:2.0 MC Close Focus (1983) made by Komine
• SMC PENTAX-A 28mm f/2.8 (1984)

Read the full article on my blog.

Interesting... I know the Zeiss f/2 gets a lot of good reviews, and the Pentax as its equivalent, but surprised the Zeiss f/2.8 did so poorly.

I have a copy of the Vivitar f/1.9, but the times I've tried it, I've not been impressed; I suspect the copy is wonky, the lens body rocks from side to side on the mount. I tried taking it in to a repair shop, but it came back in not much better shape than when I took it in.

Your Bestiary mentions the Kiron-made f/2.5 with the flared 67mm filter ring (the K14); have you had a chance to use one? Despite the bulk, it's turned into my favorite 28mm over the last year. I especially like the tonal rendering, doing a really nice job on things like glossy surfaces and cloud textures.

A couple of years ago, I did a comparison of several 28mm's on M4/3; that was before I got the Vivitar (Kiron) f/2.5, so maybe I should re-do it one of these days. I did rather like the Nikon Ai 28/2, but my favorite ended up being my trusty OM Zuiko 24/2.8.

 

[robin0112358]

I recall that even on APS-C the Vivitar f/1.9 was very washed out until stopped down. Hence it didn't justify the rather significant bulk and weight. Have not used the K14.

I could simply have a poor copy of the Zeiss f/2.8 though it looks perfect.

For me now the two Pentax lenses are so nice that the search is over! The Distagon clone was likely the most money I've spent on a lens, but curiosity got the better of me. And it will retain value. It really is special.

I did purchase a SMC Pentax 28mm F3.5 from Japan but it arrived defective, even from a trusted seller. Since the only reason I bought it was to make this comparison more thorough, I didn't try again. As for repairs, there is simply no-one here in Ireland. The minimum charge is €250 for a respected tech in Germany. Buying a lens for €200 and then fixing it for €250 is not my idea of a good deal!