Pentax telephoto lens from the 1960s, 105mm focal length, f/2.8 aperture; prized for creamy bokeh and organic skin tones in portraiture.
Technical Details
The Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 105mm f/2.8 consists of five lens elements in four groups with a minimum focusing distance of 1.5 meters. The multi-layer coating (Super-Multi-Coating) significantly reduces stray light and reflections. The lens covers a field of view of 23° and achieves its optimal sharpness performance at f/5.6 to f/8. Early models used thorium-containing glass, which developed a characteristic yellowing over decades. The M42 screw mount allows its use on various camera systems with appropriate adapters.
History & Development
Asahi Pentax introduced the first Takumar series in 1957; the 105mm telephoto lens followed in 1958. The Auto-Takumar 105mm f/2.8 (1962) established the focal length as a standard for portraits and longer shots. In 1971, the Super-Multi-Coated Takumar replaced previous versions, offering top quality in the telephoto lens range until 1975. After the transition to the K-mount in 1975, Pentax ceased M42 production, making these lenses sought-after collector's items.
Practical Use in Film
Cinematographers of the 1960s and 70s used the Takumar 105 for portrait shots and compressed backgrounds, especially in 16mm productions. The pronounced bokeh at the wide-open aperture of f/2.8 creates creamy out-of-focus transitions, while the moderate telephoto focal length preserves natural facial proportions. Stanley Kubrick used similar focal lengths for intimate character studies. Modern filmmakers employ vintage Takumars for organic skin tones and subtle contrasts that make digital footage appear less clinical.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to contemporary Zeiss Planars or Leica Elmars, the Takumar 105 offers comparable optical quality at a significantly lower cost. Modern alternatives like the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 Macro or Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L surpass it technically but do not achieve the characteristic "look" of the 1960s. The similar Pentax SMC 105mm f/2.8 (K-Mount) offers practical advantages through automatic aperture control but lacks the vintage charm of the M42 screw mount.