Some years ago I purchased the first generation EOS-M, Canon's first mirrorless camera, so that I could make use of my small collection of old manual focus lenses on a digital platform without having to shoot & scan film (which I still do sometimes). Most of these lenses are '70's and '80's vintage, some older. A few years back I upgraded to an EOS-M3, 24mp. The M series have APSC sensors with a crop factor of 1.6. This results in an altered angle of view most evident in the wide to moderate telephoto range - fundamentally changing the character of these fine old lenses, imho. More recently I've acquired a Sony A7 full-frame mirrorless camera. FWIW, it has certainly renewed my interest in the old manual focus lenses, especially for sill life work.

Hi Charles,

 

a delicate orchid image, shot with a vintage lens! Right up my alley. I really like the DoF and the colors. Your introduction is very nice too; I also keep using my collection of vintage lenses. Kind regards, Vincent

Hi Vincent- I knew you would appreciate this :)

A bit more info on this lens: the manufacturer is Kino Precision, Japan c. 1985, distributed in the USA by Vivitar. Later, KP set up their own distribution subsidiary called Kino. In response, Vivitar purchased a number lenses from the manufacturer and rebranded them specifically as Vivitar 100/2.8 1:1 macro telephoto, with serial No. starting with 227. The Kiron is labeled, Kiron 105/2.8 1:1 macro. Both lenses are the same. They were well received at the time for optical & build quality matching or exceeding offerings from the major camera companies - and for a slightly lower price. Today, this lens is considered a “cult classic” along with other Kino-made lenses like the early Vivitar 70-210/3.5 Series 1.

Hi Charles,

 

thanks for all this info! You know a lot about lenses; I have an Auto Kinor MC 1:2.8 / 28 mm in my collection, which may well be from the same manufacturer. Kind regards, Vincent