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Comparison

Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 vs Olympus OM-System Zuiko Auto-S 50mm f/1.4

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 Olympus OM-System Zuiko Auto-S 50mm f/1.4 is a 50mm f/1.4 Olympus OM lens made 1972-1980s, valued at $70 to $280 used.

Specifications side by side

Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 and Olympus OM-System Zuiko Auto-S 50mm f/1.4 specifications compared
SpecificationAsahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4Olympus OM-System Zuiko Auto-S 50mm f/1.4
Focal length50 mm50 mm
Maximum aperturef/1.4f/1.4
Native mountM42Olympus OM
Production years1971-19751972-1980s
Optical design7 elements / 6 groups, Double Gauss, thoriated rear glass7 elements / 6 groups, Double Gauss
Typical used value$130$130
Value range$70 to $240$70 to $280
Adapts toSony E, Fuji X, MFT, Canon RF, Nikon Z, L-mountSony 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.
  • Typical used values are equal at $130.
  • Both are 50mm lenses, so framing is identical on the same sensor.
  • The Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 is the older design; production began around 1971 against 1972 for the Olympus OM-System Zuiko Auto-S 50mm f/1.4 (1971-1975 versus 1972-1980s).
  • They use different mounts, M42 and Olympus OM, 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

The catalog data cannot separate these two on speed or price. Decide on rendering, described below, and on the condition of the specific copy in front of you.

Minimum focus distance, weight, and measured sharpness are not in the catalog, so this comparison does not claim anything about them.

Full reference pages

Mount references: M42 and Olympus OM