So I've promised this a while ago: a shoot out between the DA*50-135 and the best you can get in terms of primes in the Pentax A generation. A odd thing to do? Well, not from my perspective. I got into Pentax with the A lens generation using my Super A and Program A cameras. My two first lenses were the A50/1.7 and A100/2.8 (wise enough to avoid the dog A135/2.8, but not with the money yet for the star lenses). Later, on my first salary after the university, I got a used A*135/1.8. My brother got a A*85/1.4, which I frequently borrowed, while he borrowed the A*135. So lot's of my early (1980-90's) Pentax shooting were with these four lenses. They set my expectations. I didn't get a zoom until years later, nor autofocus.
But here is now a zoom lens with a star which performs so well that I find it seriously replacing primes for me. A lens that has begun to build a reputation that it is bound to be a classic cult lens. But can it keep up with the expectations I have from my first Pentax primes? If I forget the obvious difference in weight and how fast I can change focal length?
I decided to find out. I have the A*85 on loan from my brother for a month, so the team is complete.
From left to right:
SMC PENTAX-A
* 1:1.8 135mm
SMC PENTAX-A 1:2.8 100mm
SMC PENTAX-A
* 1:1.4 85mm
SMC PENTAX-A 1:1.7 50mm
(Stop drooling or go and get a napkin, so the show can begin)
Two sheriffs and their two deputies! And they are not happy about the new Kid who challenges them.
"Will he leave us in the camera bag for that crippled wining plastic newcomer?"
"Drop your aperture blades!" the sheriff shouts. "You are surrounded!"
The two sheriff's flash their green stars, the deputies closing the circle.
Who will win? Who will be used most in the future?
To be continued...