Lenses for 67

Hi all,

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I would like to know when were introduced lenses for 67.

I am mostly curious about those lenses which have

new (computer) design.

I now know only about 55/4, 200/4 and new 55-100/4.5 & 100/4 macro.

Can anybody know relase date of each lense ?

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I appreciate any information.

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Thanks

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Pavel M

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p.s. Does anybody here have 100/4 macro and could comment its quality?

Pavel, I know that Pentax began using computers as a design aid no

later than 1984. Be aware that designs that were done prior to using

computers can be just as good as the ones using computers. The latest

200mm was designed in 1985; the latest 55mm (8 element) was designed

in 1985 also. Most of the original lenses that were designed when the

P67 was introduced (30 years ago)have been redesigned. The ones that

have not been changed, probably has to do with their performance being

so good that redesign was not necessary. The 75mm is an example of

this. The date of the design is less important than the design

expertise. SR

Steve, I am quite new in MF and most of my knowledge is based on

experiences with 35mm format. In small format (35mm) lenses are

redesigned in much shorter period, especially last few years. It is

mostly because producers want to use more and more ED and/or

aspherical elements to improve lens quality. It is interesting how

slower time goes in medium format in comparison with 35mm. I just

order 67II system with two lenses 55 and 200mm so I wanted to get

some details about it. I just have not decided about standard lens. I

am thinking about new 100 macro or 135 macro. Can somebody help me ?

Yes, the changes are slower in the MF world but the optical designs

are no less progressive. Pentax does use ED glass but is very

secretive about its designs. You must judge their lenses by their

performance and not by advertisements or promotion. The 135 macro is

ok for a normal lens and is quite sharp. The 100 macro is overpriced

for use as a normal lens unless you do much macro work. I've had the

105 Takumar for ten years and like it for both macro and infinity

work. SR