Hi, I'm looking for a third lens for my 6x7. I have an old 55mm and a 75 mm lens. I would like something longer and the 135 marco lens looks interesting. My question - has there been any improvments in the optics between the older lenses and the current model? Also how well does the lens work for landscapes, ie focusing to infinty and stopped down? Thanks Leif

-- Leif Pigott (LeifP@wairc.govt.nz), January 18, 2000

Answers

As far as I can tell, by looking at the cross sections, the present design is the same as the original. It is a Dynar type design with two mirror image achromats separated by a double concave element. It is almost symmetrical as are most macro lenses. I have limited experience with this lens but can say that for macro work, it is quite sharp. Theoretically, it should not be all that sharp wide open at infinity but stopped down it should be OK. Someone with more practical experience with this lens needs to answer this part of your question though. SR

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), January 18, 2000.

Leif: the 135 is outstanding for your landscape applications. It may be my most used lens. Regards, Bob

-- Bob Cook (bcook@wc-m.com), January 19, 2000.

The 135mm hasn't been redesigned optically. The only new parts were the mount and focusing ring (plastic fantastic+rubber)and *perhaps* the multicoating. Apart from that, it's the same ol' lens and it should be as good in the Takumar version as it is (I have one - my sharpest P67 lens!!!) in the SMC Pentax. This is one lens you surely won't be sorry about.

-- Alex B. (samedobrefotke@hotmail.com), January 20, 2000.

I use the 135mm for nature and portrait shots with great success. I used it to shoot a semi-distant waterfall and the results were spectacular. (The image on my web page doesn't do the original transparancy justice.) The 135mm lens doesn't focus close enough for true nature photography -- for that I would recommend using the extension tubes, too. I have a photo of tree bark shot at the lens' closest focus distance. This one I have printed 16x20 and framed in my house. Vistors always stop and stare. That cibachrome print looks almost 3D. Good luck with your decision on this lens!

-- Joel Collins (jwc3@mindspring.com), February 15, 2000.