Comparison
Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 vs Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C.
The Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 is a 50mm f/1.4 M42 lens made 1971-1975, valued at $70 to $240 used. The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. is a 50mm f/1.4 Canon FD lens made 1971-1990s, valued at $55 to $200 used.
Specifications side by side
| Specification | Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 | Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length | 50 mm | 50 mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.4 | f/1.4 |
| Native mount | M42 | Canon FD |
| Production years | 1971-1975 | 1971-1990s |
| Optical design | 7 elements / 6 groups, Double Gauss, thoriated rear glass | 7 elements / 6 groups, Double Gauss |
| Typical used value | $130 | $100 |
| Value range | $70 to $240 | $55 to $200 |
| Adapts to | Sony E, Fuji X, MFT, Canon RF, Nikon Z, L-mount | Sony E, Fuji X, MFT, Canon RF, Nikon Z, L-mount |
What actually differs
- Both open to f/1.4, so neither has a speed advantage.
- The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. is cheaper. Typical used value is $100 against $130, a gap of $30. Ranges: $55 to $200 versus $70 to $240.
- Both are 50mm lenses, so framing is identical on the same sensor.
- Production of both began around 1971 (1971-1975 and 1971-1990s).
- They use different mounts, M42 and Canon FD, so each needs its own adapter. Both reach infinity on mirrorless bodies with a plain mechanical adapter.
- Both use 7 elements in 6 groups.
Which one to buy
On the catalog data the Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. wins on the $30 lower typical price, and the Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 gives up nothing measurable in return except its own rendering, described below. Condition and variant matter more than the spec sheet at these prices.
Minimum focus distance, weight, and measured sharpness are not in the catalog, so this comparison does not claim anything about them.