All Forum Comments
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on Vertical Sunsets at 04/06/2025 - 12:52
Eye of Sauron?
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on Vertical Sunsets at 03/06/2025 - 18:14
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on Vertical Sunsets at 03/06/2025 - 17:28
The 645 A series lenses are plastic, the same as the A series lenses for 135 format, but they're bigger and thicker so they feel better. The 645 FA series are also plastic but much more flimsy, at least the 75/2.8 I owned was. Since I only had an original 645 camera, with no AF, I sold it and bought the A version instead, which is much better built.
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on 645D lens quality vs Limited & best vintage SMC-A at 03/06/2025 - 15:04
In terms of build quality alone, not considering optical performance, how does the 645 35mm compare to SMC-A full frame lenses?
My primary lens for comparison would be the 50mm f/1.2.
Chat-GPT gives me the following verdict:
"If you're looking for mechanical elegance and craftsmanship, the 50mm f/1.2 is the winner — it's a jewel of 1980s optical design.
If you need something durable and functional for demanding use, the 645 35mm f/2.8 edges ahead with its solid, no-nonsense construction suited to medium format expectations."
"50mm, exceptionally smooth, long travel ideal for precise MF versus 35mm, still smooth, but slightly stiffer and more utilitarian"
Thanks again,
Kasper
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on 645D lens quality vs Limited & best vintage SMC-A at 02/06/2025 - 09:46
After seeing what the K10D is capable of, I’m considering picking up a 645D sometime soon (I vaguely remember that Helena Christensen shooting with a Pentax 645 film camera was what got me into Pentax in the first place about 20 years ago).
I’ve noticed that the 645 SMC-A 75mm and 645 SMC-A 45mm f/2.8 lenses are going for reasonable prices on MPB and eBay (especially for lenses made in Japan).
That brings me to my question: how are these lenses generally regarded in terms of optical quality—say, compared to something like the SMC-A 50mm f/1.2 or the Limited 77mm f/1.8? Or one of the Carl Zeiss ZK lenses?
Also, I’ve come across conflicting info about the build quality of the 645 lenses—some sources say they’re all-metal, while others mention plastic components. Any inputs on that would be appreciated.
In addition, what is a fair estimate of shutter life-time in used, but well-treated 645D?
Thanks in advance,
Kasper
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on 645D lens quality vs Limited & best vintage SMC-A at 01/06/2025 - 13:53
Just wanted to draw attention to this month's competition: Bokeh (Monthly #155), which ends in 7 days.
I hope to see as many contributions as possible - and as much variety & as many interpretations of the theme as possible!
A nice weekend to everyone,
Kasper
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on 7 Days to Bokeh (Monthly #155) Ends at 24/05/2025 - 15:46
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on Misty morning trees at 17/04/2025 - 16:59
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on Misty morning trees at 17/04/2025 - 13:51
Comment by kasperbergholt posted on Which is best? at 24/02/2025 - 19:11




This is really buggering my neck up!