Pentax's SMC Takumar 85mm f/1.8 — a fast multi-coated M42 portrait prime with smooth rendering.
The Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 85mm f/1.8 is a fast short-telephoto prime made by Asahi Optical for the M42 screw mount in the early 1970s. It carried Asahi's Super-Multi-Coating and stood as the fast portrait lens of the Pentax M42 system, the multi-coated successor to the earlier Auto- and Super-Takumar 85mm designs.
This is a manual-focus M42 screw-mount lens with an 85mm focal length and a bright f/1.8 maximum aperture. Focus and the automatic diaphragm are operated on the barrel. It is a substantial all-metal short telephoto. Optical construction details are not asserted here beyond the verified focal length and aperture, in line with the accuracy standard.
The 85mm focal length with f/1.8 is a classic portrait pairing, giving flattering perspective and shallow depth of field for isolating subjects. This lens is well liked for smooth rendering and pleasant out-of-focus areas wide open, sharpening when stopped down. The multi-coating helps contrast in mixed light, making it a favourite portrait Takumar.
This is a desirable fast Takumar and prices reflect its portrait reputation. Inspect the larger elements for haze, fungus and coating wear, check the aperture blades for oil, and confirm smooth focus over the longer travel. An M42 adapter makes it a fine manual portrait lens on mirrorless bodies where focus aids ease use of the fast aperture.