Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses (other makers)

[Frantisek]

PS> 300mm lens ever made). The 20/2.8 and 85/1.8 use the same lens formulas as
PS> Pentax. The 20mm and 35mm CZJ primes focus remarkably close, typically
Hi Paul,
I have to correct one myth.
I looked, and both the 20mm Flektogon and the 85mm Planar don't have
that much common in formula with Pentax offerings. They are both
different formula. There is no connection! The similarity is even less
than with common 50mm double-gauss designs.

Compare for yourself: http://kmp.bdimitrov.de/lenses/primes/ultra-wide/index.html
http://www.praktica-users.com/lens/mlenses/czjflek28_20.html

It may be even that it was actually me who told you so about the
1.8/85 and 1.8/80. Here, you see how myths work and spread ;-) From my
own example, I now do not believe ANYTHING I read about a lens on the
internet...;-)

I also believe that Cosina/Voigtländer does indeed make their new
primes for M42 mount. After all, year ago or so they released a whole
new M42 mount SLR!

I think these primes would be the better buy than for example an old
CZJ lens from ebay. Unless you can test the lens yourself, it can be
dubious especially if you have high expectations because of rumours
and myths.

Good light!
   fra

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses (other makers)

[Paul Stregevsky]

Jim Meeks asked:
"As a follow-up question regarding the best Pentax screw mounts, I've heard
about  Zeiss and other makers like Vivitar and Soligor. Do any of these
lenses compare optically or in build? How about the new Russian lenses or
Cosina/Voigtlander? Thanks again."

Jim,
I have a great deal of experience with older third-party lenses and have
amassed many pages of comments from various websites. I offer the following
evaluations, from memory (some details may be slightly off):

Vivitar's best lenses were designated Series One or Series 1. The Series One
primes are the 28/1.9, 100/2.5 macro (1:1 magnification), 135/2.3 (1:4.5
magnification), 200/3 (1:4 magnification), 450/4.5 mirror lens (which you'll
never find, and if you do, never afford), and 600/8 "solid CAT" lens. I
believe all were available in screwmount, but only the 28/1.9 and (if
available) 105/2.5 were multicoated in the screwmount version(s); the 135
and 200 were multicoated on the K-mount versions only. (Don't feel bad; some
Series One primes for bayonet mounts like Canon and Olympus were
single-coated.) These are the Vivitars to go for. The 105/2.5 macro is also
sold as a Kiron 105/2.8, but possibly in bayonet mount only.

Some non-Series One lenses are said to be as good as a Series One, notably
the 100/2.8 macro (1:1), 135/2.8 macro (1:2), 28/2 macro (1:4?), and 35/1.9.
I tested the 35/1.9 against the Pentax SMC 35/2K. It was no contest: The
Pentax was much sharper in the corners at all apertures, at least as sharp
in the center at all apertures, and at least as contrasty. As for the 28/2,
I used to own its Kiron precursor (both were made by Kino Precision). It was
as sharp as my Vivitar 28/1.9, but the colors were muted and contrast was
deficient.

Some of the Series One lenses were also marketed under the Panagor name. The
90/2.5 1:2 macro comes to mind. The Series One 24-70 f/3.5-4.8 was sold
under Panagor or some other third-party brand whose name escapes me.

Soligor's best lenses were designated C/D for Computer-Designed. The C/D
primes included a 28/2, 35/2, 100/2 (the only 100/2 ever made in K mount, by
the way); 135/1.8, and (later) 135/2.0; and 200/2.8.  Most were available in
screwmount. The finest-performing Soligor zoom was probably their 35-140
f/3.5 macro. Soligor images tend to have a green cast.

Zeiss-specifically, Carl Zeiss Jena (CZJ) of the former "East Germany"-made
several fine primes in M42 mount. The best were the 20/2.8 (multicoated),
20/4 (single coated but even lower in distortion), 35/2.4 (multicoated),
85/1.8 (multicoated), and 300/4 MC Auto Electric (arguably the finest M42
300mm lens ever made). The 20/2.8 and 85/1.8 use the same lens formulas as
Pentax. The 20mm and 35mm CZJ primes focus remarkably close, typically
yielding magnifications of 1:4 or 1:5. A 28/2.8 macro was also issued, but
it was a rebadge of a Japanese lens.

Among the M42 Russian lenses, the Zenitar 16/2.8 fisheye is no match for the
older Sigma 16/2.8 fisheyes-at least no match for the Sigma XQ, which I own.
Better choices would be the Peleng 17/2.8 fisheye or Mir 20/3.5, a
rectilinear lens. The Peleng 8mm fisheye is fun to use. The Helios 85/1.5 is
not that sharp but makes a superb portrait lens, which a many-bladed
diaphgram that yields beautiful bokeh.

Speaking of Sigma, their 21-35 f/3.5-4.2 is probably the finest wide-angle
zoom ever offered in M42 screwmount. It was introduced even as Sigma
introduced autofocus counterparts in the various bayonet mounts!

Among third-party normal lenses in M42, the best is probably the Tomioka
55/1.2. But I doubt it's better than Pentax's later 50/1.4s and 55/1.8.

Several 400mm German lenses were made in M42 mount. My favorite is the Enna
400/4.5 Tele-Ennalyt, a remarkably compact design. When you can find one,
it's usually less than $300.

I'm not aware that Cosina/Voigtlander primes are available in M42
screwmount; just Leica screwmount.



Paul Franklin Stregevsky 

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses (other makers)

[Jim Colwell]

There are many excellent M42 screw mount lenses (in addition to many of the
SMC Taks).  You really should visit http://medfmt.8k.com/third/cult.html
Some of my favourites are:

Tokina SL RMC 17 3.5
Carl Zeiss Jena MC Flektogon DDR 35 2.4
Vivitar Series 1 VMC [Komine] 135 2.3
Vivitar Close Focusing [Komine] 135 2.8
Vivitar Series 1  VMC [Komine] 200 3
Vivitar Series 1 VF VMC [Kino] 35-85 2.8

Of these, I like the CZJ 35/2.4 and Vs1 200/3 the best.

P.S. don't forget Tamron Adaptall, especially Tamron SP (the SP 300/5.6 is
marvellous)

Jim
www.jcolwell.ca

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses (other makers)

[Paul Stenquist]

The Vivitar Series 1 screw mount lenses are very good. They include at 
least an 80/210 zoom, a 28/1.9, and a shorter zoom, I think they may 
also have made the great 90/2.5 macro in screw mount as well as some 
others. Then there are some standard Vivitar lenses that are okay, but 
generally not the equal of the SMC Taks.
On Oct 21, 2004, at 11:48 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

As a follow-up question regarding the best Pentax screw mounts, I've 
heard about  Zeiss and other makers like Vivitar and Soligor. Do any 
of these lenses compare optically or in build? How about the new 
Russian lenses or Cosina/Voigtlander? Thanks again.

Jim

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses (other makers)

[Peter J. Alling]

Yes to all of them, and some of them are outstanding.
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
As a follow-up question regarding the best Pentax screw mounts, I've heard about  
Zeiss and other makers like Vivitar and Soligor. Do any of these lenses compare 
optically or in build? How about the new Russian lenses or Cosina/Voigtlander? Thanks 
again.
Jim
 


--
I can understand why mankind hasn't given up war. 
During a war you get to drive tanks through the sides of buildings 
and shoot foreigners - two things that are usually frowned on during peacetime.
	--P.J. O'Rourke

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses (other makers)

[[EMAIL PROTECTED]]

As a follow-up question regarding the best Pentax screw mounts, I've heard about  
Zeiss and other makers like Vivitar and Soligor. Do any of these lenses compare 
optically or in build? How about the new Russian lenses or Cosina/Voigtlander? Thanks 
again.

Jim

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[frank theriault]

On Thu, 21 Oct 2004 03:17:32 GMT, [EMAIL PROTECTED] <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> 
> My late father-in-law left me a pristine chrome Spotmatic II with a S-M-C Takumar 
> 50mm f1.4 and a few accessories. The meter even works! I was checking some of the 
> usual sites, but could find little information regarding which lenses to look for 
> and which to avoid. I did read the 85 f1.8 is a great lens and Mike Johnston just 
> wrote that the 35 f2 is pretty good, but that's about it. If you could point me to a 
> site or have an opinion I would like to hear it. Thanks.
> 

One word:

1000mm:

http://optiopics.homestead.com/gfm2004/IMGP8255.jpg

Comes with it's own wooden tripod (not shown in this illustration). 
You'll probably want a Sherpa to lug it, as Jostein has hired in this
photo.



cheers,
frank


-- 
"Sharpness is a bourgeois concept."  -Henri Cartier-Bresson

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[Andre Langevin]

135/2.5 (later SMC version--hard to distinguish and to find) is
the same as K lens and has a great reputation--the earlier one isn't as good
at least at wide stops.
The version I shows 8, 16, 22 as depth of field marks while version 
II shows 4, 8, 16, 22.  So simply look for the lens that has a single 
"4" between the two symetrical "8".

Andre

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[edwin]

>My late father-in-law left me a pristine chrome Spotmatic II 
>with a S-M-C Takumar 50mm f1.4 and a few accessories. 
>The meter even works! I was checking some of the usual sites, 
>but could find little information regarding which lenses to look 
>for and which to avoid. I did read the 85 f1.8 is a great lens 
>and Mike Johnston just wrote that the 35 f2 is pretty good, 
>but that's about it. If you could point me to a site or have an opinion
> I would like to hear it. Thanks.

>Jim

A lot of screw-mount lenses are the same optical design as their "K" 
successors, so often you can use opinions about those to guide you.

My personal opinions:

50/1.4 indeed is very good.  35/2 (old and new) also very good--ALL Pentax 
35/2 designs appear to be very good.  85/1.8 is very good but I find that 
at middling apertures the 105/2.8 is better and I am quite fond of the 
105 in general.  I believe most versions of the 105/2.8 are the same as 
K105/2.8.

I find the 28/3.5 (49mm filter version) to be very good indeed, whereas 
the wider 24mm and 20mm lenses were pushing the limits of design in their 
day and are not great--the 20mm is a bit infamous.  The 24 isn't really 
all that bad for a 24, but noticeably worse than longer focal lengths as 
is the case with most brands.

The 150/4 (later version, which all SMC-takumars are, and is apparently 
the same as the K lens) is quite nice, and pretty much all the 200s 
(3.5 and 5.6 pre-set, and 4.0 which = K 200/4) are solid peformers but 
biggish by modern standards.  
The 300, 400, and 500mm lenses are quite credible but have been eclipsed by 
modern designs with internal focusing (easier to use) and low-dispersion glass. 
Of the three long lenses, so far I find the 500 to be the best optically 
but the hardest to use--but I haven't shot a whole lot with any of them.
A warning that focusing a pre-set or manual lens at f/4.5 or f/5.6 is a 
challenge, especially if the subject is moving, which is in its way a 
recommendation for the 77mm filter version of the 300/4.0 because it alone 
of the big glass has automatic aperture.

85/1.9 precursor to the 85/1.8 is apparently loved by many, but supposedly 
not as sharp as the later version--it's probably a case of the "portrait 
feel".  135/2.5 (later SMC version--hard to distinguish and to find) is 
the same as K lens and has a great reputation--the earlier one isn't as good
at least at wide stops.
Many love the 35/3.5, whereas I find my own version to be mediocre--perhaps a bad 
sample.  The 55/1.8 or 55/2.0 (same optics) is apparently mediocre or 
worse at wide and middling stops and improves markedly past about 5.6.

my recs in order of preference: 28/3.5, 105/2.8, 85/1.8, 150/4, 200/4

DJE

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[Andre Langevin]

Thursday, October 21, 2004, 2:34:05 PM, Fred wrote:
 The 28mm (very common and cheap) and the 24mm (less common and
 more expensive) are both good lenses.
F> You have to be more specific than that.  "The" 28mm ?
F> Fred
Also, "The" 35/2 ;-) which one please...
Good light!
   fra
SMC lenses, as Jim's 50/1.4 and Mike Johnson's 35/2.
The 28mm and 35mm lenses in question have a 49mm filter size.  The 28 
with a 58mm filter size and the 35 with a 67mm filter size are plain 
Super-Takumar (non SMC).   I don't know how good is the old 28 but 
the old 35 is also a good lens.

Andre

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[Frantisek]

Thursday, October 21, 2004, 2:34:05 PM, Fred wrote:
>> The 28mm (very common and cheap) and the 24mm (less common and
>> more expensive) are both good lenses.

F> You have to be more specific than that.  "The" 28mm ?

F> Fred

Also, "The" 35/2 ;-) which one please...

Good light!
   fra

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[Fred]

> The 28mm (very common and cheap) and the 24mm (less common and
> more expensive) are both good lenses.

You have to be more specific than that.  "The" 28mm ?

Fred

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[Paul Stenquist]

Tfhe 35/2 is a great lens, but it's prone to the yellow glass syndrome. 
Make sure the front element hasn't yellowed before buying one of these. 
The 50/1.4 that you already have is great, and you're correct about the 
85/1.8. The SMC Tak 200/4 is a real bargain and quite good. The last 
version of the SMC Tak 135/2.5 is very good as well. It's hard to tell 
it apart from the early version, which has one less element and is 
slightly smaller. The 105/2.8 and the 120/2.8 are super. The 24/3.5 and 
28/3.5 (all of these in SMC Tak) are quite good. The 35/3.5 is very 
good and quite plentiful. I owned the 300/4 at one time and was quite 
pleased with its performance. It comes with a tripod mount and hood.
On Oct 20, 2004, at 11:17 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

My late father-in-law left me a pristine chrome Spotmatic II with a 
S-M-C Takumar 50mm f1.4 and a few accessories. The meter even works! I 
was checking some of the usual sites, but could find little 
information regarding which lenses to look for and which to avoid. I 
did read the 85 f1.8 is a great lens and Mike Johnston just wrote that 
the 35 f2 is pretty good, but that's about it. If you could point me 
to a site or have an opinion I would like to hear it. Thanks.

Jim

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[Andre Langevin]

My late father-in-law left me a pristine chrome Spotmatic II with a 
S-M-C Takumar 50mm f1.4 and a few accessories. The meter even works! 
I was checking some of the usual sites, but could find little 
information regarding which lenses to look for and which to avoid. I 
did read the 85 f1.8 is a great lens and Mike Johnston just wrote 
that the 35 f2 is pretty good, but that's about it. If you could 
point me to a site or have an opinion I would like to hear it. 
Thanks.

Jim
The SMC 35/3.5, a high definition low flare lens, is great for street 
photography or any other kind...  It's rather common and cheap.

The 28mm (very common and cheap) and the 24mm (less common and more 
expensive) are both good lenses.

The 85/1.8 is indeed fabulous.
My personal favorite is the 100mm macro.  It has good bokeh, which is 
not common for a macro lens (they say).

I've also liked the Pentax K 135mm f2.5, which is the same as SMC 
Takumar version 2.  If you want to know how to distinguish version 2 
from 1, write me off-list, I have the data not far.

Welcome to the Pentax family!
Andre

Re: Best Screw Mount Lenses

[Mat Maessen]

That 50/1.4 you got with the camera is a pretty darned nice lens. 
And I'm still cursing myself for not getting a 35/3.5 cheaply when I
had the chance.

I've got an S-M-C Takumar 400/5.6 that's absolutely beautiful. But no,
it's not for sale. :-)

-Mat


On Thu, 21 Oct 2004 03:17:32 GMT, [EMAIL PROTECTED] <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> 
> My late father-in-law left me a pristine chrome Spotmatic II with a S-M-C Takumar 
> 50mm f1.4 and a few accessories. The meter even works! I was checking some of the 
> usual sites, but could find little information regarding which lenses to look for 
> and which to avoid. I did read the 85 f1.8 is a great lens and Mike Johnston just 
> wrote that the 35 f2 is pretty good, but that's about it. If you could point me to a 
> site or have an opinion I would like to hear it. Thanks.

Best Screw Mount Lenses

[[EMAIL PROTECTED]]

My late father-in-law left me a pristine chrome Spotmatic II with a S-M-C Takumar 50mm 
f1.4 and a few accessories. The meter even works! I was checking some of the usual 
sites, but could find little information regarding which lenses to look for and which 
to avoid. I did read the 85 f1.8 is a great lens and Mike Johnston just wrote that the 
35 f2 is pretty good, but that's about it. If you could point me to a site or have an 
opinion I would like to hear it. Thanks.

Jim

Re: Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body

[Christian]

When I decided to attach the adapter to a lens permanently, I removed the
clip-thingy that holds the adapter to the body.  Without it, the adapter
will not stay on the body, so I drilled a notch in the lens at the correct
point to where the lens release should be, so, in effect, it works like a
regular k-mount lens.  I used lock-tite on the adapter to keep it in place
on the lens-mount threads.

you are right though.  If the adapter is not modified you have to unscrew
the lens from the body and then remove the adapter.

Christian

- Original Message - 
From: "Hal Davis" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 14, 2004 5:19 PM
Subject: Re: Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body


> The adapters I have go on the camera body as you describe, and a spanner
tool
> is used to remove them. How do you remove the adapter and lens from the
body
> as one unit??
>
>
>
> >Works well either way ...
> >
> >Christian wrote:
> >>
> >> The adapter is meant to be installed on the body and the lenses just
screwed
>
> >> on or off as needed.  The adapter isn't really designed to be
permanently
>
> >> attached to a lens.  I know of two people (me being one) that have
attached
>
> >> it to a lens permanently, but it is not the "norm"
> >
> >
>

Re: Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body

[Hal Davis]

The adapters I have go on the camera body as you describe, and a spanner tool
is used to remove them. How do you remove the adapter and lens from the body
as one unit??



>Works well either way ...
>
>Christian wrote:
>> 
>> The adapter is meant to be installed on the body and the lenses just screwed

>> on or off as needed.  The adapter isn't really designed to be permanently

>> attached to a lens.  I know of two people (me being one) that have attached

>> it to a lens permanently, but it is not the "norm"
>
>

Re: Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body

[Christian]

Funny, I forgot all about you!  I was thinking of Bill Robb.

Christian

- Original Message - 
From: "Cotty" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>


> On 14/1/04, [EMAIL PROTECTED] disgorged:
>
> >The adapter is meant to be installed on the body and the lenses just
screwed
> >on or off as needed.  The adapter isn't really designed to be permanently
> >attached to a lens.  I know of two people (me being one) that have
attached
> >it to a lens permanently, but it is not the "norm"
>
> hey, I resemble that remark!
>
> 
>
>
>
>
> Cheers,
>   Cotty

Re: Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body

[Cotty]

On 14/1/04, [EMAIL PROTECTED] disgorged:

>The adapter is meant to be installed on the body and the lenses just screwed
>on or off as needed.  The adapter isn't really designed to be permanently
>attached to a lens.  I know of two people (me being one) that have attached
>it to a lens permanently, but it is not the "norm"

hey, I resemble that remark!






Cheers,
  Cotty


___/\__
||   (O)   |  People, Places, Pastiche
||=|  www.macads.co.uk/snaps
_
Free UK Mac Ads www.macads.co.uk

Re: Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body

[Shel Belinkoff]

Works well either way ...

Christian wrote:
> 
> The adapter is meant to be installed on the body and the lenses just screwed
> on or off as needed.  The adapter isn't really designed to be permanently
> attached to a lens.  I know of two people (me being one) that have attached
> it to a lens permanently, but it is not the "norm"

Re: Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body

[Christian]

The adapter is meant to be installed on the body and the lenses just screwed
on or off as needed.  The adapter isn't really designed to be permanently
attached to a lens.  I know of two people (me being one) that have attached
it to a lens permanently, but it is not the "norm"

As others have mentioned:  Make sure you get a PENTAX branded adapter

Christian

- Original Message - 
From: "Pentax" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 14, 2004 1:36 PM
Subject: Re: Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body


> Thanks for the info.
>
> Do people usually get one adaptor per lens and leave the adaptor on
> the lens or just buy a single adaptor for all the lenses they plan on
> using and swap it out?
>
> Rob
>

Using screw mount lenses on K-mount body

[Pentax]

What do I need to know about using a screw mount lens on a k-mount body (MX)?

I know you need an adaptor and there's some difference in metering. 
"Stop down metering" which I don't quite understand.

In general does this work out pretty well or is it a pain in the a** 
and I should just look for K-mount equivalents of the lenses?

Some of the ones I want seem to be much more abundant (and 
inexpensive) on e-Bay in their screw mount forms.

Thanks,
Rob

Re: Screw Mount Lenses

[Rfsindg]

I've been using an ES and ES II with several SMC lenses.
The SMC 50mm f1.4 and the SMC 28mm f3.5 are beauties.
They remind me of the current Pentax Limited Lens line.
I've also used the SMC 135 f3.5 and would like to find the f2.5.
Regards,  Bob S.

[EMAIL PROTECTED] quotes and writes:

> >I've been trying to collect some SMC Takumar screwmount lenses and
> >the ones I have used thus far are very good and feel wonderful in use. 
> >Tactile photography...
> >Bob S.
>  
>  Which ones have you got? I have a Spotmatic from 30 odd years ago (I
>  still use it extensively especially for travelling; I'm just back from
>  Kyoto) which came with the 55mm f1.8 as standard, and I also bought a 
>  Hanimex 135mm f2.8. Hanimex lenses are usually not highly thought of,
>  but I think this one was made by Vivitar and is quite good quality. Since 
then
>  I've got the 85mm f1.9, and the 50mm f1.4.
>  
>  80% of my photography (outdoor 'nature' and cities) is shot with short
>  telephoto, the rest with standard, but I do also quite like 135mm.
>  
>  I have the chance to buy a Super-Tak 135mm f2.8 (same specs as the
>  Hanimex) and wonder if anyone knows the lens and could give advice?
>  
>  Kind regards
>  
>mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Screw Mount Lenses

[MyHosting]

I've been trying to collect some SMC Takumar screwmount lenses and
the ones I 
have used thus far are very good and feel wonderful in use. 
Tactile 
photography...

Bob S.

Which ones have you got? I have a Spotmatic from 30 odd years ago (I
still use it extensively especially for travelling; I'm just back from
Kyoto) which came with the 55mm f1.8 as standard, and I also bought a Hanimex 135mm
f2.8. Hanimex lenses are usually not highly thought of, but I thinsk
thsi one was made by Vivitar and is quite good quality. Since then
I've got the 85mm f1.9, and the 50mm f1.4.

80% of my photography (outdoor 'nature' and cities) is shot with short
telephoto, the rest with standard, but I do also quite like 135mm.

I have the chance to buy a Super-Tak 135mm f2.8 (same specs as the
Hanimex) and wonder if anyone knows the lens and could give advice?

Kind regards

  mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Screw Mount lenses

[Rfsindg]

Some here have screwmount lenses and are pretty knowledgeable, plus this is a 
friendly list.  Ashai Pentax Historical Society run by Dario 
Bonnanza(spelling) in Italy is probably the best source.  

I've been trying to collect some SMC Takumar screwmount lenses and the ones I 
have used thus far are very good and feel wonderful in use.  Tactile 
photography...

Regards,  Bob S.

[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

>  I came across this discussion group during a search. I was hoping that 
>  there were a few users of the Super-Takumar lenses, but can't find 
anything 
>  much in the archives.
>  
>  Could anyone kindly point me in the right direction.

Re: Screw Mount lenses

[brooksdj]

> I came across this discussion group during a 
search. I 
was hoping that 
> there were a few users of the Super-Takumar lenses, but can't find anything 
> much in the archives.
> 
> Could anyone kindly point me in the right direction.
> 
> Regards
> 

   Hi Francis.
There are a number of people on this list with M42 experience and ownwership(my self) 
and
are very 
willing to answer questions.
I belong to :
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/M42
and
http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/spotmatic
all free,just sign up.

There you can search archives or ask questions too.

Dave

Screw Mount lenses

[Francis Ebury]

I came across this discussion group during a search. I was hoping that 
there were a few users of the Super-Takumar lenses, but can't find anything 
much in the archives.

Could anyone kindly point me in the right direction.

Regards

Re: Pentax M, K, and screw mount lenses

[William Johnson]

Interesting observation.  I do have a couple of screw mount lenses, and they
are quite petite.  I really like my M series lenses for this also.  However,
I actually prefer the slightly greater girth of the K lenses I own, 30, 50
and 105.  That said, I also prefer the smaller M series cameras over the
older K series cameras.

William in Utah.
- Original Message -
From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2003 1:27 PM
Subject: Pentax M, K, and screw mount lenses


> All the talk on this list of the quality of the old screwmount Takumars
has
> me out trying some.  I got an old Spotmatic and picked up 50, 28, and
135mm
> lenses along the way.
>
> I was out taking some pictures with the kit in the cold (5 degree
Fahrenheit
> and windy) this AM when it hit me.  The screwmount Takumars are really
> petite.  They are about the same size as my ME kit, M50/1.7, M135/3.5, and
> M28/2.8.  Now I wonder if the old Takumars didn't have some bearing on the
M
> series creation.
>
> When Pentax switched to the K mount, the first lenses were bigger and
bulkier
> than the final SMC Takumars they replaced.  The old Takumars were really
> elegant as Mike J. and others have said.  The new K's were big fat things
> with 52 or 58mm diameters and bulky.  So what is a logical next step back
> then, especially when they were introducing the ME/MX cameras that were so
> tiny...  Let's go back to the original size lenses we were using, the
> Takumars.  We'll call the new lenses M series!
>
> When I photographed some cameras for Bill Robb's 50 year LX anniversary
> pages, I was surprised to find the LX was about the same size and shape as
> the original Spotmatic.  I wonder if the lens designs didn't revert to the
> original sizes too.
>
> Regards,  Bob S.
>

Re: Pentax M, K, and screw mount lenses

[Bob Rapp]

Hi Bob,
Coming to K from screwmount, it, at first did not concern me which
Pentax lenses I bought. The lenses I first came up with were the "M" series
and they were not up to scratch (35, 28). Only then did I decide to obtain
those same lenses in the SMC Pentax series as they were Takumars in K mount.
Unfortunately, they had the 52mm filter size in a move to look more
professional.
The SMC Takumars were a peak in lens development for Pentax. The move to
the "M" series was made for compact size and profit as a great majority of
them are inferior to the SMC Pentax series (50mm f1.4 and 1.7 are very good
tho). Others may disagree, but I am very happy with my Takumars and SMC
Pentax lenses.

Bob Rapp
- Original Message -
From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Monday, January 27, 2003 7:27 AM
Subject: Pentax M, K, and screw mount lenses


> All the talk on this list of the quality of the old screwmount Takumars
has
> me out trying some.  I got an old Spotmatic and picked up 50, 28, and
135mm
> lenses along the way.
>
> I was out taking some pictures with the kit in the cold (5 degree
Fahrenheit
> and windy) this AM when it hit me.  The screwmount Takumars are really
> petite.  They are about the same size as my ME kit, M50/1.7, M135/3.5, and
> M28/2.8.  Now I wonder if the old Takumars didn't have some bearing on the
M
> series creation.
>
> When Pentax switched to the K mount, the first lenses were bigger and
bulkier
> than the final SMC Takumars they replaced.  The old Takumars were really
> elegant as Mike J. and others have said.  The new K's were big fat things
> with 52 or 58mm diameters and bulky.  So what is a logical next step back
> then, especially when they were introducing the ME/MX cameras that were so
> tiny...  Let's go back to the original size lenses we were using, the
> Takumars.  We'll call the new lenses M series!
>
> When I photographed some cameras for Bill Robb's 50 year LX anniversary
> pages, I was surprised to find the LX was about the same size and shape as
> the original Spotmatic.  I wonder if the lens designs didn't revert to the
> original sizes too.
>
> Regards,  Bob S.
>

Pentax M, K, and screw mount lenses

[Rfsindg]

All the talk on this list of the quality of the old screwmount Takumars has 
me out trying some.  I got an old Spotmatic and picked up 50, 28, and 135mm 
lenses along the way.

I was out taking some pictures with the kit in the cold (5 degree Fahrenheit 
and windy) this AM when it hit me.  The screwmount Takumars are really 
petite.  They are about the same size as my ME kit, M50/1.7, M135/3.5, and 
M28/2.8.  Now I wonder if the old Takumars didn't have some bearing on the M 
series creation.

When Pentax switched to the K mount, the first lenses were bigger and bulkier 
than the final SMC Takumars they replaced.  The old Takumars were really 
elegant as Mike J. and others have said.  The new K's were big fat things 
with 52 or 58mm diameters and bulky.  So what is a logical next step back 
then, especially when they were introducing the ME/MX cameras that were so 
tiny...  Let's go back to the original size lenses we were using, the 
Takumars.  We'll call the new lenses M series!

When I photographed some cameras for Bill Robb's 50 year LX anniversary 
pages, I was surprised to find the LX was about the same size and shape as 
the original Spotmatic.  I wonder if the lens designs didn't revert to the 
original sizes too.

Regards,  Bob S.

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[Dr E D F Williams]

I agree. A Dremel in the hand is a very dangerous thing to bring near a lens
mount. It can be tamed with one of those 'drill press' adapters. But what
you really need is a friendly instrument maker who will drill the mount, tap
it and insert a tiny stainless steel screw for you.

Best,

D

Dr E D F Williams

http://personal.inet.fi/cool/don.williams
Author's Web Site and Photo Gallery
Updated: March 30, 2002


- Original Message -
From: "William Robb" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Friday, September 20, 2002 11:18 PM
Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)


>
> - Original Message -
> From: Keith Whaley
> Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)
>
>
> > Gentlemen,
> >
> > In addition to being a camera collector/amasser, I am a
> pistolsmith,
> > and have been for over 40 years.
> > The bane of my existence has been home-gunsmiths with Dremels!
> > You ought to have a journeyman's license to buy one!
> > They cut so fast, and so NOT where you want to cut, you need
> > consummate skill with one to even approach a camera with good
> intentions!
> > I've been taking apart and fixing all manner of guns, and some
> of them
> > pretty intricate, but I know better than to touch a camera!
> > So, to think of anyone working on a camera that is not
> massively
> > skilled in Dremel, makes my hair stand on end!
> >
> > Find someone skilled with making small, precise holes in small
> part,
> > accurately placed, and give the job to him!
> >
> > Alternatively, be prepared to replace whatever you choose to
> work on.
> >
>
> Does it count that I give my dogs very nice pedicures
> (peticures?) with a Dremel?
> Your advice is most sage.
>
> William Robb
>

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[Bob Rapp]

There is one thing to take into consideration when permanently attatching a
K to M42 adaptor on a M42 lens.

The genuine Pentax adaptor when mounted on a K body is slightly recessed.
This is good if you want a tight mount when screwing a lens into the adaptor
when mounted on the body. The generic adaptors mount flush, but the lens
will wobble a little when mounted.

If the Pentax adaptor is chosen the adaptor/lens combination may not fulley
lock into place. A generic adaptor would probably be better suited. I have
tried both as setteled on the generic adaptor.

Bob

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[John Mullan]

On Fri, 20 Sep 2002 14:18:26 -0600, William Robb wrote:

>
>- Original Message -
>From: Keith Whaley
>Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)
>
>
>> Gentlemen,
>>
>> In addition to being a camera collector/amasser, I am a
>pistolsmith,
>> and have been for over 40 years.
>> The bane of my existence has been home-gunsmiths with Dremels!
>> You ought to have a journeyman's license to buy one!
>> They cut so fast, and so NOT where you want to cut, you need
>> consummate skill with one to even approach a camera with good
>intentions!
>> I've been taking apart and fixing all manner of guns, and some
>of them
>> pretty intricate, but I know better than to touch a camera!
>> So, to think of anyone working on a camera that is not
>massively
>> skilled in Dremel, makes my hair stand on end!
>>
>> Find someone skilled with making small, precise holes in small
>part,
>> accurately placed, and give the job to him!
>>
>> Alternatively, be prepared to replace whatever you choose to
>work on.
>>
>
>Does it count that I give my dogs very nice pedicures
>(peticures?) with a Dremel?
>Your advice is most sage.
>
>William Robb
>
That's what my podiatrist uses on toenails too!!!

jm

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[Keith Whaley]

William Robb wrote:
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: Keith Whaley
> Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..) 

= snipped =
 
> Does it count that I give my dogs very nice pedicures
> (peticures?) with a Dremel?

In dog heaven, maybe!  ;^)
Do keep in mind that a tool (cutting, gouging, and polishing
especially) left in contact with the workpiece for too long, can
create a LOT of heat!

> Your advice is most sage.
> 
> William Robb

Thanks...

keith

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[William Robb]

- Original Message -
From: Keith Whaley
Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)


> Gentlemen,
>
> In addition to being a camera collector/amasser, I am a
pistolsmith,
> and have been for over 40 years.
> The bane of my existence has been home-gunsmiths with Dremels!
> You ought to have a journeyman's license to buy one!
> They cut so fast, and so NOT where you want to cut, you need
> consummate skill with one to even approach a camera with good
intentions!
> I've been taking apart and fixing all manner of guns, and some
of them
> pretty intricate, but I know better than to touch a camera!
> So, to think of anyone working on a camera that is not
massively
> skilled in Dremel, makes my hair stand on end!
>
> Find someone skilled with making small, precise holes in small
part,
> accurately placed, and give the job to him!
>
> Alternatively, be prepared to replace whatever you choose to
work on.
>

Does it count that I give my dogs very nice pedicures
(peticures?) with a Dremel?
Your advice is most sage.

William Robb

RE: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[J. C. O'Connell]

drill and tap it of course.
Small taps are cheap and easy
to use.
JCO

> -Original Message-
> From: andre [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]
> Sent: Friday, September 20, 2002 2:55 PM
> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)
> 
> 
> >Thanks Andre. I think even I can acomplish this. I will try it
> >on something other than my new fisheye first though.
> >
> >William Robb
> 
> I was thinking...  how do you make a hole that will take a screw with 
> a Dremel?  Or will we have to bring the ring to a machinist?
> 
> -- 
> 

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[andre]

>- Original Message -
>From: andre
>Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)
>
>
>>  >Thanks Andre. I think even I can acomplish this. I will try
>it
>>  >on something other than my new fisheye first though.
>>  >
>>  >William Robb
>>
>>  I was thinking...  how do you make a hole that will take a
>screw with
>>  a Dremel?  Or will we have to bring the ring to a machinist?
>
>I just had a look at the screw adaptor. The spring clip that is
>supposed to affix the adaptor to the lens is held on with a
>screw. The clip can be removed, and the threaded hole can then
>be used for a locking screw.
>
>William Robb


True, and I suppose you don't need the clip as the lens will lock 
otherwise.  Can it be that simple?  Tell us how it is when you're 
done.

Andre



-- 

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[Keith Whaley]

Gentlemen,

In addition to being a camera collector/amasser, I am a pistolsmith,
and have been for over 40 years.
The bane of my existence has been home-gunsmiths with Dremels!
You ought to have a journeyman's license to buy one!
They cut so fast, and so NOT where you want to cut, you need
consummate skill with one to even approach a camera with good intentions!
I've been taking apart and fixing all manner of guns, and some of them
pretty intricate, but I know better than to touch a camera!
So, to think of anyone working on a camera that is not massively
skilled in Dremel, makes my hair stand on end!

Find someone skilled with making small, precise holes in small part,
accurately placed, and give the job to him!  

Alternatively, be prepared to replace whatever you choose to work on.

For what little that may be worth!

keith whaley

andre wrote:
> 
> >Thanks Andre. I think even I can acomplish this. I will try it
> >on something other than my new fisheye first though.
> >
> >William Robb
> 
> I was thinking...  how do you make a hole that will take a screw with
> a Dremel?  Or will we have to bring the ring to a machinist?
> 
> --

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[William Robb]

I need to get a life, I am replying to myself.

That should read:
The spring clip that is supposed to affix the adaptor to the
body is held on with a screw.

Sorry, I nead a concept checker.
Bill
- Original Message -
From: William Robb
Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)


>
> - Original Message -
> From: andre
> Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)
>
>
> > >Thanks Andre. I think even I can acomplish this. I will try
> it
> > >on something other than my new fisheye first though.
> > >
> > >William Robb
> >
> > I was thinking...  how do you make a hole that will take a
> screw with
> > a Dremel?  Or will we have to bring the ring to a machinist?
>
> I just had a look at the screw adaptor. The spring clip that
is
> supposed to affix the adaptor to the lens is held on with a
> screw. The clip can be removed, and the threaded hole can then
> be used for a locking screw.
>
> William Robb
>
>

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[William Robb]

- Original Message -
From: andre
Subject: Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)


> >Thanks Andre. I think even I can acomplish this. I will try
it
> >on something other than my new fisheye first though.
> >
> >William Robb
>
> I was thinking...  how do you make a hole that will take a
screw with
> a Dremel?  Or will we have to bring the ring to a machinist?

I just had a look at the screw adaptor. The spring clip that is
supposed to affix the adaptor to the lens is held on with a
screw. The clip can be removed, and the threaded hole can then
be used for a locking screw.

William Robb

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[andre]

>Thanks Andre. I think even I can acomplish this. I will try it
>on something other than my new fisheye first though.
>
>William Robb

I was thinking...  how do you make a hole that will take a screw with 
a Dremel?  Or will we have to bring the ring to a machinist?

-- 

Re: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[William Robb]

- Original Message -
From: andre
Subject: Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)


> >  >There is a way you can have a screw mount lens lock on
K-mount
> >bodies.  It needs a little
> >machine shop job done on the adapter and the lens.
> >
> >Could you expand on that please, Andre?



Thanks Andre. I think even I can acomplish this. I will try it
on something other than my new fisheye first though.

William Robb

Screw mount lenses locking on K bodies (how to..)

[andre]

>  >There is a way you can have a screw mount lens lock on K-mount 
>bodies.  It needs a little
>machine shop job done on the adapter and the lens.
>
>Could you expand on that please, Andre?
>Thanks
>
>William Robb

I do have a page explaining it.  Somewhere...  The information might 
have been posted on the list, maybe 2 years ago.  But I might have 
taken it from somewhere else.  Yes, I think from photo.net.  Maybe 
someone on the list have the reference at hands...

But, in two words, you have to drill a little hole through the side 
of the K-mount adapter in order to hold the adapter in place with a 
little screw (that will stop against the lens thread).  Then you need 
to drill a little hole in the bottom part of the lens, exactly where 
the locking pin from a K body wants to get out and lock the lens. 
This is probably enough for some people, but the "how to" was giving 
a trick to easily identify the second hole's location.  Maybe put 
some chalk and see where the K-pin's mark stops.  It does not really 
matter if you are 1 or 2 mm off on the "not totally screwed" side 
(that sounds weird...), but if the hole is too far "inside" the lens, 
you won't be able to screw the lens enough to meet the hole.

I think it should be safe to drill the hole in the lens without 
dismantling anything.  A Dremel with a high-speed bit would do the 
job easily I guess.  I'd like to do it on my SMCT 300/4 but have sold 
my Dremel to a friend years ago.  My repairman could do it though.

Especialy good to do on lenses with stiffer focusing rings. When cold 
outside, you can actually unscrew the lens while focussing.

The beauty of it is that you can easily take out the adapter if you 
have a little screwdriver.  Unlike exopyed adapters.

Will a lens modified like that loose or gain value?  You'll know it 
when you sell the lens...  I wouldn't do it to a mint lens.


Andre
-- 

Re: (2): Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[frank theriault]

Hi, Dave,

Nah.  That's why I got the MX:  so I could use k-mount lenses.  Every
time I saw a good cheap used one, or an eBay auction for one at a good
price, I would cringe.  Having several Spotmatic bodies, why would I
want to use an adapter to hang a screwmount on my MX?  (not that there's
anything wrong with that, it's just my personal choice, is all...)  I
have no desire to use my k-mounts as pre-sets if I don't have to.

So, to answer your question, I haven't had any metering problems,
because k-mounts go on the MX, screwmounts on the Spots.

regards,
frank

David Brooks wrote:

> Hi Frank.
> Now that you have that MX,have you tried any of your
> M42's on it.I'm having a meter problem when i set
> mine on a K1000 and i was wondering if you were having
> success or not.
>

--
"The optimist thinks this is the best of all possible worlds. The
pessimist fears it is true." -J. Robert
Oppenheimer
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Re: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[[EMAIL PROTECTED]]

Frank Theriault commented:
> Interesting.  I just got my first bayonet mount camera a few months ago,
> after having used screwmounts exclusively since purchasing my first
> Practika 30 years ago.  I actually find it easier and faster to change a
> screwmount lens!  No lining up little dots (which I find a real PIA in
> the dark).  It's just a matter of what one is used to, I guess.

I got reasonably fast changing screwmount lenses, but a big 
attraction to K-mount for me was still the speed of lens 
changes.  If I fumble and have to look and line things up,
yeah, it can take longer, but Pentax lenses (other than the
A35-105/3.5 which has the little white bump in the wrong 
place!) go on very quickly without looking most of the time
(thanks to the aforementioned little white bump).

Thing is, in some shooting situations I change lenses a _lot_.
Especially if I'm using primes.  (Moving to K-mount sped things
up two ways:  not only do I change primes more quickly, but 
I'm sometimes using zooms now.  Of my two M42 zoom lenses, one
wasn't all that inspiring before something broke inside, and 
now it's pretty much useless; the other is occasionally 
convenient but only covers about a 2:1 zoom range (90-190),
so I'm still frequently unscrewing it to put another lens on.

I'd used Olympus before I got my first H3, so I knew how quick
a bayonet lens change could be while I was swapping my 55/1.8
for my 138/2.8 back and forth over and over before I got my
first K-mount body.

-- Glenn
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Re: (2): Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[David Brooks]

Hi Frank.
Now that you have that MX,have you tried any of your
M42's on it.I'm having a meter problem when i set
mine on a K1000 and i was wondering if you were having
success or not.

Dave


Pentax User
Stouffville Ontario Canada
http://home.ca.inter.net/brooksdj

Sign up today for your Free E-mail at: http://www.canoe.ca/CanoeMail 
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Re: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[Paul Stenquist]

It is easy to cross thread a brake line, But as others have said, it's
almost impossible to cross thread a screw mount lens. When I shot a lot
of motorsports with screw mount lenses back in the seventies, I used to
pack my lenses in old socks and stick them in my pockets. I would
frequently change lenses between shots, and it was a fast and reflexive
motion. I never recall having to consider whether or not a lens was
threading correctly. They just spun on and off. It was simple, and it
still is.
Paul

TM wrote:
> 
> Good to know that it's hard to cross-thread a screwmount- just coming
> from experience w/ other stuff, I'm kind of paranoid about cross
> threading stuff- almost did that w/ a brake line, very bad news had I
> done so.
> 
> Taka
> -
> This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List.  To unsubscribe,
> go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to
> visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
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Re: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[frank theriault]

If we put lenses on with wrenches, it might be a problem!  ;-)

-frank

TM wrote:

> Good to know that it's hard to cross-thread a screwmount- just coming
> from experience w/ other stuff, I'm kind of paranoid about cross
> threading stuff- almost did that w/ a brake line, very bad news had I
> done so.
>
> Taka
> -
> This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List.  To unsubscribe,
> go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to
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--
"The optimist thinks this is the best of all possible worlds. The
pessimist fears it is true." -J. Robert
Oppenheimer
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RE: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[TM]

Good to know that it's hard to cross-thread a screwmount- just coming
from experience w/ other stuff, I'm kind of paranoid about cross
threading stuff- almost did that w/ a brake line, very bad news had I
done so.

Taka
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Re: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[frank theriault]

Excellent points, JCO (both in this post, and your last one about
cross-threading).

I remember as a teenager, before I bought my first SLR, taking a photography
course at a local camera shop.  Bayonet mounting was considered "state of the
art" back then.  Our instructor suggested that one real disadvantage of
threadmount was the possibility of crossthreading.  That being said, I've
never come close to doing it;  neither have I heard of anyone else doing it.
Still, the criticism continues, despite evidence to the contrary.

BUT, I had forgotten until I read your post, how easy it is to drop lenses
while "spinning" them on, thinking that the threads had engaged, then letting
go of the lens.  I learned the hard way, long ago, dropping a nice Soligor
200mm lens I was mounting on my Praktica.  Ah, the follies of youth...

regards,
frank

"J. C. O'Connell" wrote:

> It doenst take very long to mount a screwmount lens BUT when youre
> spinning it around in the beginning, before the threads start to
> catch, it IS much easier to drop the lens compered to K mount.
> JCO
> -

--
"The optimist thinks this is the best of all possible worlds. The pessimist
fears it is true." -J. Robert
Oppenheimer
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Re: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[Nitin Garg]

On Tue, Apr 09, 2002 at 08:47:22PM -0400, TM wrote:
> Frank,
> Thanks for the advice.
> 
> I'll look into another Spotmatic body, maybe a II so I have the
> hotshoe.
> 
> I'm really, really slow w/ changing screwmount lenses- paranoid about
> cross-threading and it seems really slow. Bayonet mount lenses are so
> simple- line up the dots, turn 1/4 and click, ready to go.

Its very very difficult to cross thread a sm lens. I was slow too but I
got real quick at it. Simple put on cam mount and spin it around
quickly. It is simpler than lining up dots.
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RE: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[TM]

Frank,
Thanks for the advice.

I'll look into another Spotmatic body, maybe a II so I have the
hotshoe.

I'm really, really slow w/ changing screwmount lenses- paranoid about
cross-threading and it seems really slow. Bayonet mount lenses are so
simple- line up the dots, turn 1/4 and click, ready to go.

Taka

-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] On Behalf Of frank theriault
Sent: Tuesday, April 09, 2002 5:09 PM
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: Re: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses


Hi, Taka,

Comments interspersed with your text:

TM wrote:

> Thanks so much to all who replied to my first post.
>
> I'll look into repair a little further- the Spotmatic
> that I have is in nice shape otherwise, although there
> is a bit of green corrosion on the viewfinder housing.
>
> It looks like I'll have to get another Spotmatic body
> just for flexibility's sake- those screwmount lenses
> are awfully slow to change.

Interesting.  I just got my first bayonet mount camera a few months ago,
after having used screwmounts exclusively since purchasing my first
Practika 30 years ago.  I actually find it easier and faster to change a
screwmount lens!  No lining up little dots (which I find a real PIA in
the dark).  It's just a matter of what one is used to, I guess.

>
>
> In the meantime, I guess I'll also go get some bayonet
> mount lenses, the motor drive for the Super A and the
> flash.
>
> Are there any particular Spotmatics that should be avoided
> or sought out?

None to be avoided, really.  Be aware that the SP500 really does have a
"phantom" 1/1000 shutter speed;  there's an unmarked detente just past
1/500.  The factory didn't calibrate it, so it may be 1/2 stop off or
so, but it's there, and it can be calibrated at a repair shop.  I use
mine all the time, without problem.  SP500/1000's, however, have no
self-timer (which I pretty much never use anyway).

SPII's have the advantage of a hotshoe.  F's have the advantage of a
hotshoe, shutter lock and open aperture metering.  However the F's meter
is on whenever the lens cap is off (there's no on/off switch), so it's
easy to leave off the lens cap when you get home, and drain the battery.
I've heard varying stories of reliability of ES's and ESII's - some on
this list have used them problem-free since forever.

So, really, it's a matter of features that you're willing to pay for,
rather than one model being more reliable than another;  SPII's, F's and
the ES models cost more on the used market than the other models
mentioned.

regards,
frank

>
>

--
"The optimist thinks this is the best of all possible worlds. The
pessimist fears it is true." -J. Robert Oppenheimer
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Re: Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[andre langevin]

- those screwmount lenses are awfully slow to change. (Taka)

>Interesting.  I just got my first bayonet mount camera a few months ago,
>after having used screwmounts exclusively since purchasing my first
>Practika 30 years ago.  I actually find it easier and faster to change a
>screwmount lens!  No lining up little dots (which I find a real PIA in
>the dark).  It's just a matter of what one is used to, I guess. (Frank)

I have been travelling in the eighties with two screwmount adapted MX 
(one for b&w, the other for chromes), a 55mm on one and a 28mm on the 
other and would interchange them often.  The 2 cameras laying on 
their back in my open fanny pack, I would grab both lenses, unscrew 
them, depose them (crossed hands) at about the right place on their 
respective bodies, unscrew them half an inch to insure the open 
thread is passed and rescrew them.  Within, I'd say, 5 or 6 seconds 
if I'm a bit nervous.  More if relaxed or too nervous... (UFOs etc.)

I've never done this repeatedly with K-mount stuff but I guess that 
with a bit of practice I could do as fast or faster.  I should try 
it, I still use such a fanny pack.

I cannot do that switch with the padded Lowe-Pro Orion as I put the 
cameras vertically (or it wouldn't make sense to use such a big 
fanny).

With the unpadded fanny, I use my own padding as the bodies (leather 
covered) rest on the top of my buttocks.  The central bone is between 
the bodies.  You can really pack this thing if you want (airports, 
etc.).

The third lens (100mm macro) usually don't stay on a body if I really 
have to walk after the macro session.  Feels unbalanced.

Andre Langevin
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Spotmatics and screw mount lenses

[TM]

Thanks so much to all who replied to my first post.

I'll look into repair a little further- the Spotmatic
that I have is in nice shape otherwise, although there
is a bit of green corrosion on the viewfinder housing.

It looks like I'll have to get another Spotmatic body
just for flexibility's sake- those screwmount lenses
are awfully slow to change.

In the meantime, I guess I'll also go get some bayonet
mount lenses, the motor drive for the Super A and the
flash.

Are there any particular Spotmatics that should be avoided
or sought out?

Taka
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Re: Screw mount lenses on Nikon digital?

[Bob Rapp]

Subject: Screw mount lenses on Nikon digital?

Wait for a Pentax body, they have seemed to never let the old screwmounts
down. The only adaptor I know of is a 2X single element adaptor. I have one
that came with my 400 f5.5

Bob
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Screw mount lenses on Nikon digital?

[Paul Stenquist]

I meant to inquire about this before, but forgot. JCO just jogged my
memory. Can screw mount lenses be used on a Nikon digital camera with
the screw mount to Nikon adapter? If not, I would think it would be a
fairly simple matter to make the appropriate adapter. Perhaps we could
get together and have a couple dozen made. I only have one of each, but
I have most of the screw mount SMC Taks. They're probably better than
the Nikon glass.
Paul

Bob Rapp wrote:
> 
> > Just think if Pentax ever does develop a hi-res K-mount digital
> > SLR, There is good reason to believe the screwmount lenses
> > will fit with an adapter. What a combination that would be
> >
> > JCO
> 
> There are all to few that can fully appreciate the Takumars. Within the
> Pentax line there are few that can touch them optically or mechanically. The
> K series bayonet were the high point of the bayonet lenses. All are Takumar
> formulas with one exception. The 28 f3.5 K is actually better and has one
> more element. Pentax lost the plot with the "M" series as cost and
> compactness prevailed over optical quality.
> 
> One has only have to look at the lifespan of some of the Takumar optical
> designs that remained in the catalogues! And, some are still there (15 f3.5,
> 100 f4 bellows).
> 
> Bob
> Only with the limited, has Pentax gone back to the days of yesterday and
> produced excellent optical and mechanical lenses. But, look at the cost!
> Worth every penny? Yes.
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FS: Screw Mount Lenses & Bodies

[Shel Belinkoff]

I don't use 'em, and I don't want to be a collector, so here are a few
items that are looking for a good home:

SMCT 35/2.0
SMCT 35/3.5
SMCT 28/3.5
ST   50/1.4
Macro Tak 50/4.0 converted to K-mount
ST   105/2.8
SMCT 105/2.8 
Spot F Chrome (Cosmetically superb, mechanically excellent)
Spot F Black (nicely brassed, mechanically superb)
Spot II  Looks rough, mechanically superb
Spot F Owner's Manual
The Pentax Way by Keppler
Pentax & Single Lens Reflex Photography by Rbt Fuhring


Contact me off list for details and prices.
-- 
Shel Belinkoff
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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Re: Screw mount lenses: are they worth?

[Todd Stanley]

If you are refering to Pentax Takumars, those lenses are some of the finest
lenses ever made, and optically still awesome performers by today's
standards.  Many of the SMC Takumars are optically identical to lenses in
the K series like the 35mm F3.5 and 85mm F1.8.  They are worth it if you
are willing to stop them down and focus them manually.  If you are refering
to 3rd party lenses, like any third party lenses some are good, most are
ok, and some are just plain junk.  Be sure to avoid any "auto" screw mount
3rd party lens that lacks a manual stop down switch, because then you will
have to shoot them wide open with the adaptor.  All Pentax screw mount
lenses with the auto diaphrams have the manual stop down switch.  

Todd

At 10:55 PM 8/20/01 -0500, you wrote:
>I've seen that screwmount lenses sometimes have unbelievably low prices on
>eBay. I don't have any and I don't even have an adaptor, but: are there any
>screwmount lenses worth a few bucks for occasional shooting? (My camera is a
>ZX-5n, and I know about the metering thing with m42 lenses.)
>
>Thanks!
>
>
>Hernan Mouro
>http://seiscuerdas.com/mouro
>
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>
>
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RE: Screw mount lenses: are they worth?

[Paul M. Provencher]

The screwmount lenses are all I use.  Well almost.  I have a normal, K-mount
lens, a 135mm f/2.8, 24mm, and 85mm f/2.2 Soft Focus, all for the ME Super.
But mainly I shoot with the SMC Takumar M42 mount lenses on one of several
Spotmatic-family cameras.

For use with K-mount cameras they are not convenient but when used properly
will give superb results.  If you are looking for fast operation with
K-Mount, forget it.  If you are taking your time you might be happy with
some of the relative bargains to be had.  Image quality is hardly an issue
as most folks consider most SMC Takumar screw-mount lenses to be as good as
any you can buy.  Of course there ARE ongoing debates about a few of the
more exotic ones (20mm)...

They have a great resale value so it's pretty safe to try them and resell if
you find it does not work for you.

ppro
http://whitemetal.com/pentax/index.htm


> -Original Message-
> From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]On Behalf Of Hernan Mouro
> Sent: Monday, August 20, 2001 11:55 PM
> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Subject: Screw mount lenses: are they worth?
>
>
>
> I've seen that screwmount lenses sometimes have unbelievably low prices on
> eBay. I don't have any and I don't even have an adaptor, but: are
> there any
> screwmount lenses worth a few bucks for occasional shooting? (My
> camera is a
> ZX-5n, and I know about the metering thing with m42 lenses.)
>
> Thanks!
>
> 
> Hernan Mouro
> http://seiscuerdas.com/mouro
>
> -
> This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List.  To unsubscribe,
> go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to
> visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
>

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Re: Screw mount lenses: are they worth?

[Aaron Reynolds]

Hernan Mouro wrote:
> 
> I've seen that screwmount lenses sometimes have unbelievably low prices on
> eBay. I don't have any and I don't even have an adaptor, but: are there any
> screwmount lenses worth a few bucks for occasional shooting? 

I'm quite fond of my Super Takumar 35mm f2.0 (the older one with the
67mm front).  I have good memories of my dad's old screwmount 105 f2.8
and 200mm f4 (don't recall if they were SMCs, but based on the age of
the gear they're probably Super Takumars).

-Aaron


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screw mount lenses on ZX50 / MZ50

[Arnold Stark]

Hi,

I have been asked whether one can use original K and M
lenses on the ZX50 / MZ50. I think the answer is: Metering
works correctly only at open aperture as the ZX50 lacks the
aperture simulator. But what about screw mount lenses with a
K mount adapter - would the ZX50 meter work correctly with
them?

Arnold

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