[ralphl]

This is probably a dumb question, but after using this lens for many years, I am only now noticing that it says "Asahi Optical Company Takumar (bayonet)". It does not say Pentax. I bought it from Pentax way back in my K1000 days, and now that I'm getting ready to sell it, I'm only now noticing the name. Am I missing something here, or is this not the same as the Pentax? Thanks!

[godwine]

Pentax was founded in 1919 as Asahi Optical Joint Stock Co. In 1938 it changed its name to Asahi Optical Co., Ltd

Takumar is just a name that was given to the Asahi Optical lenses, named after Takuma Kajiwara.

Takumar - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

In short, yes, its still a Pentax

Hope this helps

[ralphl]

thanks Ican sell it as a Pentax

[blende8]

It's a non SMC lens.
Look here:
Takumar 135/2.5 (Bayonet)

[Entropy]

Not SMC, but in my experience, still a rather good lens. I paid $71 including shipping for mine, was worth it. I think I did overpay slightly at that rate but not too much.

[ericc]

thanks Ican sell it as a Pentax

It is a Pentax lens, but it does not have the SMC coating that the K version has. I paid $35US for mine in early 2006. It's not a great lens, but it's not as bad as some people suggest. The lack of coating means it's subject to flaring if pointed toward a strong light source.

The older, screwmount Takumars are very solid performers and some of the K mount models as well. Pentax re-used the brand name of Takumar for some lower-quality lenses in the 1980's. The autofocus Takumar F series should be avoided if you can get the SMC F equivalent.

I suggest you check out Bojidar's site or the Splosdb if you have questions about the individual Tak lenses.