Zenitar's MC 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye — an affordable Soviet M42 full-frame fisheye prime.
The MC Zenitar 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye is a Soviet, later Russian, full-frame fisheye prime made for M42 and other mounts from the late 1980s. It became one of the best-known affordable fisheye lenses, widely adapted for its distinctive perspective and low cost relative to Western fisheyes.
This is a manual-focus M42 screw-mount lens with a 16mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, designed as a full-frame diagonal fisheye rather than a rectilinear wide. Focus and aperture are set by hand, and fisheyes of this type incorporate built-in or rear filters. Exact element figures are not asserted here beyond the verified focal length and aperture.
As a diagonal fisheye the 16mm gives a wide, curved field that bends straight lines away from the centre, used creatively for landscapes, interiors, action and dramatic perspectives. The very deep depth of field makes focus uncritical, and multi-coating aids contrast. It is chosen for its bold look at a modest price.
Used copies are affordable and popular, with production spanning decades so condition varies. Inspect the curved front element for scratches, haze and fungus, verify the aperture and any filter mechanism work, and check the mount and focus. Confirm the M42 mount version. An M42 adapter makes it a well-liked affordable fisheye on mirrorless.