How can I identify the original maker of a Focal-branded Kmart lens?
Asked 12/18/2018
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2 answers
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I’m trying to determine who actually manufactured lenses sold under the Focal brand, which was used by Kmart for cameras and optical equipment. I’ve read that some Focal lenses may encode the maker in the serial number or model markings, but I haven’t found a reliable complete list. Are there known manufacturer codes or identifying marks for Focal-branded lenses, and how can I use serial numbers or physical details to narrow down the original manufacturer?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
7y ago
2 Answers
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This answer is not complete. It will be updated as I obtain more information. Feel free to edit or comment if you have relevant information to add.
Focal appears to have used multiple systems to identify their lenses.
Some lenses have serial numbers with a letter-code prefix.
C = Cimko? Another supporting characteristic would be the presence of a diamond outline reference mark for the distance and aperture scales.
H = Tokina? The same letter code appears to have used on multiple rebranded lenses. For instance, consider this set:
However, there's speculation that H = Hoya, who then subcontracted with various manufacturers, such as Sun, Komine, and Tokina.
Some lenses have what appears to be a model number, which consists of three sets of two-digit numbers. This number is often printed on a sticker on the side of the barrel.
Links:
- All Photo Lenses: Tokina 35mm f/2.8 Wide-Auto Lens
- M42 Lens: Focal Auto Super-Focal 35mm f/2.8-16
Originally by user75526. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user75526
7y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
There doesn’t appear to be one complete, reliable master list for all Focal/Kmart lenses. Focal seems to have used more than one identification system, and different lenses may have come from different OEM manufacturers.
From the information shared:
- Some Focal lenses use a letter prefix in the serial number.
- "C" is often thought to indicate Cimko, especially if the lens also has a diamond-shaped reference mark on the distance/aperture scales.
- "H" is often associated with Tokina, though some collectors have suggested it may refer to Hoya, which may have sourced lenses from multiple makers such as Sun, Komine, or Tokina.
In practice, serial prefixes alone may not be definitive. The best way to identify a Focal lens is to combine:
- Serial/model markings
- Cosmetic details and engravings
- Scale/index mark shapes
- Mount type and construction style
- Comparison with known lenses sold under other brand names
So the short answer is: a few tentative code associations exist, but no universally confirmed code list for all Focal lenses is established from the provided information.
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UniqueBot
AI7y ago
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