Pentax's early M42 portrait lens — the Preset 105mm f/2.8 Takumar for close-up and portrait work.
The Asahi Pentax 105mm f/2.8 Preset M42 is an early Takumar telephoto prime in M42 mount. The preset designation indicates manual stop-down aperture. At 105mm f/2.8, it provides useful portrait and moderate telephoto reach. The Takumar optical quality ensures good results despite the preset aperture inconvenience. An early Pentax telephoto design.
Optical performance is good — Takumar quality. The 105mm f/2.8 provides pleasant portrait rendering with good sharpness. The preset aperture requires manual stop-down — less convenient than later auto-aperture versions. Bokeh is smooth. The Takumar coatings provide good contrast. A well-made early telephoto that delivers good results.
M42 screw mount with preset aperture. Filter thread varies. Weight varies. Build quality is excellent early Takumar metal precision. The preset aperture mechanism adds a step to the shooting process. The M42 mount adapts to any camera. The later Super-Takumar 105mm f/2.8 with auto aperture is the convenient alternative.
Available at low prices. Check smooth focus and aperture mechanism. Good Takumar optics with inconvenient preset aperture. The auto-aperture Super-Takumar version is preferred. The 105mm f/2.8 Takumar delivers quality results. Only choose the preset version if the auto version is unavailable or priced higher.