PentaxForums.com Marketplace Listing Item for Sale
SMC Pentax-A* 645 600mm f/5.6 ED (IF) lens
Asking Price
$3799.00 USD
Item Location
Livingston, Montana (United States)
Item Description
SMC Pentax-A* 645 600mm f/5.6 ED (IF) lens
Utilizing a Pentax 645-A mount this manual focus, automatic aperture lens fits and operates fully on all Pentax 645 medium format camera bodies, including the latest 645D digital body, for which its extreme resolution is a perfect match. On a 645 format body it is comparable to a 360mm lens on a 35mm film body, or, roughly, a 540mm lens on the current Pentax DSLR cameras (K-5, K20, K-r, K-7, etc.). With the Pentax Adapter K for 645 lens mount adapter it can also be used on all past Pentax 35mm K-mount bodies and current Pentax DSLR bodies.
Very rare and no longer made, this top of the line "star" series lens was the longest focal length and most expensive lens made for the Pentax 645 camera. Essentially hand-built to the most exacting tolerances and utilizing the most advanced telephoto optical technology, including extra-low-dispersion (ED) rare earth glass and internal focusing [IF], this was arguably the sharpest, lowest aberration, best performing lens available for the 645 camera. It is also built like a tank.
This particular lens, Serial Number 4053449, while used was never abused. Great care was taken when using it, which is reflected in the fact that there are only a small handful of tiny paint chips missing. Four tiny and barely visible on the handle, a small chip and very minor scuff marks on the tripod foot (see photos). Other than that the lens is in essentially mint condition. Glass is flawless and like new, including the protective 128mm PF filter that protects the rare earth front lens element. This optically clear filter is designed to act as part of the overall optical system, so, although it can be screwed off, it should be kept on at all times. Mechanically the lens is also flawless, and all parts operate exactly as when brand new.
Focus is velvet smooth and razor sharp at all f-stops across the film/sensor plane, with virtually no color fringing or chromatic aberration, and, with the Pentax patented Super Multi-Coating, very little lens flare even shooting directly into the sun. Bokeh is buttery smooth. Contrast is crisp. Color transmission and fidelity is Pentax faithful. In every parameter, on a scale of 1 to 10, this lens is a 10. For a comprehensive member review (not mine), including all specifications, see the forum Pentax Lens Review Database - Pentax 645 Medium Format Lenses - 645 Telephoto Primes.
All the parts that the lens came with - front filter, front soft vinyl lens cap, rear hard plastic lens mount cap, drop in filter holder, lens strap, lockable aluminum hard side lens case with original keys and key holder, and instruction sheet - come with the lens (see photo). The only thing that shows any normal wear is the lens case itself, which, as one would expect for a lens used professionally, shows dings, minor dents, and normal travel scuffs. However, it closes smoothly dust tight, locks easily and holds the lens securely. See photos for all the above.
I loved the pictures this lens made and hate to part with it, but, like all my 645 stuff, I am liquidating it because I am semi-retired and no longer shoot commercial advertising and corporate work, so have no need for it. I am offering it here exclusively before putting it up for auction on eBay so that forum members, fellow Pentax lovers and Pentaxians, have first shot at it.
Are you the original owner of the item being sold?
Yes
Are you selling or trading this item?
Selling
Item Condition (Key)
Used
Excellent
Shipping Destinations
North America
Shipping Charge
Buyer pays actual, incl. insurance, customs fees, etc.
Shipping Services
USPS, UPS
Accepted Payment Types
PayPal Check/Money Order
Return Policy & Additional Details
7 day return policy if item not as described. Buyer pays return shipping and insurance.
Please send me a
private message if interested in the item!
Last edited by fliegenfischer; 04-17-2013 at 07:53 AM.
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