Comparison
Nikon Nikkor-S Auto 50mm f/1.4 (pre-AI) vs Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4
The Nikon Nikkor-S Auto 50mm f/1.4 (pre-AI) is a 50mm f/1.4 Nikon F (pre-AI) lens made 1962-1974, valued at $60 to $220 used. The Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4 is a 50mm f/1.4 Pentax K lens made 1977-1984, valued at $60 to $210 used.
Specifications side by side
| Specification | Nikon Nikkor-S Auto 50mm f/1.4 (pre-AI) | Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length | 50 mm | 50 mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.4 | f/1.4 |
| Native mount | Nikon F (pre-AI) | Pentax K |
| Production years | 1962-1974 | 1977-1984 |
| Optical design | 7 elements / 5 groups, Double Gauss | 7 elements / 6 groups, Double Gauss |
| Typical used value | $110 | $110 |
| Value range | $60 to $220 | $60 to $210 |
| 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.
- Typical used values are equal at $110.
- Both are 50mm lenses, so framing is identical on the same sensor.
- The Nikon Nikkor-S Auto 50mm f/1.4 (pre-AI) is the older design; production began around 1962 against 1977 for the Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4 (1962-1974 versus 1977-1984).
- They use different mounts, Nikon F (pre-AI) and Pentax K, so each needs its own adapter. Both reach infinity on mirrorless bodies with a plain mechanical adapter.
- Construction differs: 7 elements in 5 groups for the Nikon Nikkor-S Auto 50mm f/1.4 (pre-AI), 7 elements in 6 groups for the Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4.
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.