SMC PENTAX-A 100mm f/2.8... any thoughts?

Hello one and all

Just acquired one ot these, it wasn't cheap but not expensive either and it is in beautiful condition. I have never seen one of these come up for auction on eBay in the last 2 years so I am sure it is not so common. I also expect it is optically close to the M-series 100mm f/2.8 with probably a slightly different SMC formula. Has any one got one of these and if so what are the thoughts about it. I will be testing it in Amsterdam in a few days but until then all comments gratefully accepted...

Batty (spbatt)

I understand that the M and A series lenses are the same optically.

When CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY tested 100mm lenses of all makes (including Zeiss and Leica) they concluded that "The clear winner is the Pentax M lens".

I agree with them, it's a lovely design that delivers top quality results.

Thanks John

Always good to know how a lens has fared against its more 'illustrious' peers in the photography press. I think I'm going to be very happy with this one and it's going to get a good work out from tomorrow.

I have now realised that the Pentax-A version has the slide-out hood as well (bonus!).

All the best,

Batty

I didn't realise the A version had a slide out hood - now I want one! I always use lens hoods, but they are equally well a bit of a nuiscance.

Enjoy the new lens.

The one lens I've had with a slide out lens hood was a cheap 3rd party 135mm F2.8 (a Super Ozeck or some such) and it seemed an excellent idea.