Table of Contents
Pentax SMC 50mm f/1.2
Summary
The SMC Pentax 50mm f/1.2 is a legendary ultra-fast manual-focus prime lens for Pentax K-mount 35mm and full-frame digital SLRs, produced from 1975 to 1984. With a bright f/1.2 maximum aperture, it excels in low-light conditions and delivers razor-thin depth-of-field for dreamy, cinematic bokeh. Its 7-element/6-group optical design, 8-blade automatic diaphragm, and Super Multi-Coating (SMC) ensure excellent contrast, color fidelity, and flare resistance—even wide open. The lens focuses down to 0.45m, uses a 52mm filter thread, and weighs a hefty 385g in a robust 65 × 48.5mm all-metal barrel. It features a long, smooth focus throw ideal for precise manual focusing, especially in portraiture and creative photography. Engraved markings vary slightly between early (SMC PENTAX 1:1.2/50) and later (smc PENTAX 1:1.2 50mm) versions. Though challenging to master wide open, it rewards patient shooters with stunning rendering and remains one of the fastest and most iconic Pentax K-mount lenses ever made.
Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Pentax |
| Series | K Series Prime |
| Model | SMC |
| Focal Length | 50mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.2 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Format | Full-Frame |
| Image Circle | - |
| Minimum Focus | 45cm |
| Focus Rotation | ° |
| Iris Blades | 8 |
| Optical Design | 7/6 |
| Squeeze | none |
| Front Diameter | 65mm |
| Filter Thread | 52mm |
| Focus/Zoom Rod | none |
| Native Mount | Pentax K |
| Data Protocol | none |
| Length | 48.5mm |
| Weight | 385g |
| Body Telescope | - |
| Body Material | - |
| Focus Drive | - |
| Iris Drive | - |
| Zoom Drive | - |
History
Country of Origin:
Release Date: 1975
Launch Price:
Design Revisions: