Comparison
Asahi Pentax Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 vs Fujinon 55mm f/1.8 EBC
The Asahi Pentax Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 is a 55mm f/1.8 M42 lens made 1958-1971, valued at $35 to $130 used. The Fujinon 55mm f/1.8 EBC is a 55mm f/1.8 M42 lens made 1972-1978, valued at $50 to $170 used.
Specifications side by side
| Specification | Asahi Pentax Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 | Fujinon 55mm f/1.8 EBC |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length | 55 mm | 55 mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.8 |
| Native mount | M42 | M42 |
| Production years | 1958-1971 | 1972-1978 |
| Optical design | 6 elements / 5 groups, Double Gauss | 6 elements / 5 groups, Double Gauss, EBC multi-coating |
| Typical used value | $70 | $95 |
| Value range | $35 to $130 | $50 to $170 |
| 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/1.8, so neither has a speed advantage.
- The Asahi Pentax Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 is cheaper. Typical used value is $70 against $95, a gap of $25. Ranges: $35 to $130 versus $50 to $170.
- Both are 55mm lenses, so framing is identical on the same sensor.
- The Asahi Pentax Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 is the older design; production began around 1958 against 1972 for the Fujinon 55mm f/1.8 EBC (1958-1971 versus 1972-1978).
- Both use the M42 mount, so one adapter serves either lens on a mirrorless body.
- Both use 6 elements in 5 groups.
Which one to buy
On the catalog data the Asahi Pentax Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 wins on the $25 lower typical price, and the Fujinon 55mm f/1.8 EBC 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.
Full reference pages
Mount references: M42