FDn 35mm f/2...

Hi All,

 

Has anyone done any comparisons of the FDn 35mm f/2 against the current crop of Chinese 35mm manual lenses (Neewer, Meike, 7 Artisans et al)?

 

I'd be using the lens on and EOS M5/M3.

 

I think I've been bitten by the vintage/manual focus bug. :(

 

JD

To further confuse the issue, anyone compared the EF 35mm f/2 to the FDn 35mm f/2?

 

I know...too much time on my hands! ;)

 

JD

anyone compared the EF 35mm f/2 to the FDn 35mm f/2

AS far as I know the only difference is the mount and perhaps the coatings.

 

FWIW, the EF 35mm f/2 original is still one of my favorite shooters on a 24x36mm image.

Nice image...thanks for your input.

 

I had the FD 35mm f/2 when I shot film and loved it. If the optical design is the same I'm sure I'd be happy. I just feel the EF 35mm f/2 IS is too big, especially on my M-5/3.

 

JD

All the Canon 35/2 lenses, going back four decades, are pretty good to excellent. A few vintage versions have been talked up WAY too much on various blogs and forums, to the point they have somewhat exaggerated followings. The truth is, the first-version (non-VR) EF will ace most of them simply by being AF. All things being equal, a sharply focused image from a "sterile modern" lens will be more appealing than an off-focus image from a manual focus lens with "character".

 

So I'd recommend trying a good-condition used copy of JDMvW's first-version EF 35/2. Compared to the current, overpriced and oversized EF-VR, the original EF is compact and light. Performance of a good copy is similar to the late FDn, with the added bonus of AF. If you find it too boring, resell it and look for something weirder like pre-FDn cult Canon 35/2 SC or SSC with concave front element and Thorium glass. These are considered the "best ever" Canon 35/2, but tend to yellow from the aging Thorium (and are larger than the FDn).

Edited July 6, 2019 by orsetto

FWIW the 35/2 IS as the same length and the FDn and although the new-fangled EF lens is heavier it's similar to the Breechlock versions.

Don't know anything about those particular lenses, but the 35mm is one of my favorites on full frame/film, and quite useful as a "normal" on a DX camera.