Last week there was some talk about how to identify this cheap-but-cheerful lens. The
issue is making sure to pay UNDER US$75 for this lens versus the much higher priced,
high performing K-mount 135mm f2.5 with the 58mm front diameter.
Here are some recent auctions from ebay:
(forgive me if I gore anybody's Ox)
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2983676025
described as a Pentax-M 135mm f2.5...but see writing at front
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2983711784
described as Asahi Pentax 135mm f2.5...see excellent pictures
(you can clearly see Takumar (bayonet) inscribed around the
front rim & multi-colored f-stop markings in the 2nd picture)
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2984988454
described as Pentax K 135mm f2.5 ...but see pictures
(last shot includes the 52 mm front filter)
I'm surprised that folks are paying over $50 for this lens because it isn't that good.
It's not labled Pentax because it doesn't have the SMC anti-reflective coatings on
the glass. It is visibly inferior to the Pentax M-135mm f3.5 which is plentiful and
cheap.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2983729213
pictures show SMC Pentax-M 1:3.5 135mm around inner lip
So don't waste your money chasing the non-SMC Takumar (bayonet)
Regards, Bob S.
