Used Pentax 55MM F/2 SMC Takumar M42 mount - Good Condition

Pentax
Product # UIGPRL552SMCMFR #UIGPRL552SMC
PentaxProduct # UIGPRL552SMCMFR #UIGPRL552SMC
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Used Pentax 55MM F/2 SMC Takumar M42 mount - Good Condition
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Key Features

  • Classic Pentax SMC Takumar 55mm f/2 standard prime lens with M42 screw mount
  • Manual focus design with smooth mechanical operation ideal for vintage photography and adapted digital use
  • Super-Multi-Coated optics help improve contrast while reducing flare and ghosting
  • Versatile normal focal length well suited for portraits, everyday shooting, and close detail work
  • Used item in Good condition showing normal cosmetic wear from regular use
  • Compact all-metal construction with timeless Takumar build quality
$34.95
In Stock
30-day returns
See policy
Pay over time
PayPal at checkout
Ask an expert
1-800-631-0300
Trade in gear
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Have any questions?1-800-631-0300

OVERVIEW

The Used Pentax 55mm f/2 SMC Takumar is a classic manual focus standard prime lens designed for cameras using the M42 screw mount. Known for its solid metal construction, compact size, and pleasing optical rendering, this lens remains a favorite among film shooters, collectors, and digital photographers adapting vintage glass to modern mirrorless bodies. Its 55mm focal length delivers a natural perspective, making it a flexible choice for portraits, walk-around photography, still life, and general everyday image-making.

Compatible With

  • Pentax Spotmatic series and other M42 screw-mount film camera bodies
  • Other M42-mount cameras from compatible manufacturers
  • Many modern mirrorless cameras when used with the appropriate M42 lens adapter

Classic Takumar Character

The SMC Takumar line is well regarded for its excellent mechanical feel and attractive image character. This 55mm f/2 offers a balanced blend of sharpness, gentle contrast transition, and classic rendering that many photographers seek from vintage optics. The Super-Multi-Coating helps the lens perform better in varied lighting than many earlier uncoated or single-coated lenses, while still preserving the distinctive look that makes classic Takumars desirable today.

Manual Focus Precision

This lens uses a fully manual focus design, giving photographers direct tactile control over focus placement. The broad focus ring and traditional engraved distance markings make it especially enjoyable for deliberate shooting styles, video applications, and adapted use on mirrorless cameras with focus magnification or peaking. For photographers who appreciate a more hands-on experience, the 55mm f/2 SMC Takumar delivers a rewarding connection to the image-making process.

Versatile 55mm Focal Length

A 55mm lens sits very close to the classic “normal” field of view, making it useful across a wide range of subjects. It is narrow enough to create flattering portraits with natural perspective, yet broad enough for documentary work, casual street photography, travel, and everyday scenes. On APS-C and Micro Four Thirds mirrorless bodies, it can also function as a short telephoto, making it even more useful for tighter compositions.

Low-Light and Depth-of-Field Control

With a bright f/2 maximum aperture, this lens provides good light-gathering ability for indoor or lower-light photography compared with slower vintage kit lenses. It also allows better subject separation and shallower depth of field when desired. Whether used for environmental portraits, details, or artistic selective focus, the f/2 aperture expands creative possibilities while maintaining a compact lens profile.

Build Quality and Design

Takumar lenses are admired for their robust all-metal construction and refined mechanical engineering. This lens reflects that heritage with a dense, durable feel and classic styling that stands apart from many modern plastic-bodied optics. Its compact dimensions make it easy to carry, and its durable design has helped many Takumar lenses remain in use decades after their introduction.

Ideal Uses

The Pentax 55mm f/2 SMC Takumar is well suited for:

  • Portrait photography with vintage character
  • Film photography on M42-mount cameras
  • Adapted mirrorless shooting
  • Street and documentary photography
  • Still life and close detail subjects
  • Collectors of classic Pentax optics

How It Compares

Compared with faster 50mm or 55mm vintage primes such as f/1.8 or f/1.4 models, the 55mm f/2 is often more affordable, lighter, and simpler while still delivering the classic Takumar shooting experience. It may offer slightly less background blur than faster alternatives, but many photographers appreciate its balance of size, sharpness, handling, and value. Compared with modern autofocus lenses, it trades electronic convenience for tactile control and distinctive vintage rendering.

Recommended Accessories

  • M42-to-mirrorless adapter for your camera system
  • 52mm protective, UV, or creative effect filter
  • Front and rear lens caps if not already included
  • Lens hood to help reduce flare in strong light
  • Cleaning cloth and blower for routine maintenance

Usage Tips

  • Use focus magnification or focus peaking on mirrorless cameras for more precise manual focusing
  • Stop down slightly for increased edge-to-edge sharpness in landscapes and architecture
  • Shoot near f/2 for classic shallow-depth rendering and softer background separation
  • Pair with a hood when shooting into bright light to maximize contrast
  • Check your adapter quality to ensure secure fit and accurate infinity focus on digital bodies

A Brief History

The Takumar name holds a respected place in photographic history, especially among Pentax users and vintage lens enthusiasts. Pentax developed Takumar lenses for its screw-mount cameras, and later SMC variants introduced advanced multi-coating technology that improved flare resistance and overall contrast. Today, SMC Takumar lenses are widely appreciated for their optical personality, durability, and adaptability to modern digital systems.

Condition

This used lens is rated in Good condition (80-90% of original condition). It will show a small amount of cosmetic wear and blemishes consistent with regular use. The lens housing may show light scratches or finish wear, while the glass remains very clean and unmarked for practical use. Focus and aperture rings may show minor signs of use and age, but the lens remains in full good working order. Used items are warrantied by us under the terms of the manufacturer's original warranty for 180 days from the date of purchase. Unique Photo makes every effort to grade used items fairly and provide accurate descriptions.

Used Pentax 55MM F/2 SMC Takumar M42 mount - Good Condition
Used Pentax 55MM F/2 SMC Takumar M42 mount - Good Condition
In Stock
$34.95
In Stock
In Stock