The Asahi Pentax ES II + SMC Takumar 55mm f/1.8: A Hands-On Introduction
The Asahi Pentax ES II paired with the SMC Takumar 55mm f/1.8 M42 lens is a classic analog combo that still feels surprisingly modern. With its electronic shutter and aperture-priority automation, it bridges the gap between fully mechanical film cameras and today’s digital bodies, while the 55mm lens delivers a timeless, character-rich look.
For photographers used to autofocus and endless burst modes, this setup slows you down in the best possible way. You get a bright viewfinder, satisfying shutter sound, and that tactile pleasure of advancing each frame by hand.
My first roll through the Pentax ES II after years of digital shooting was a small shock. Suddenly every click mattered. I felt the tension of the shutter, heard the crisp “snick,” and watched the needle in the viewfinder dance as I half-pressed the shutter. Focusing the Takumar by hand, feeling the resistance of the metal focus ring, made each frame deliberate — and the results felt far more personal than any burst of RAW files.
A Brief Historical Background
The Asahi Pentax ES II arrived in the early 1970s as one of the first 35mm SLRs to embrace electronic shutter control and aperture-priority exposure. It built on Pentax’s successful Spotmatic line, but added a level of automation that made film shooting more accessible.
The SMC Takumar 55mm f/1.8 lens was the “standard” lens of the era, shipped with countless bodies. Its Super-Multi-Coating (SMC) helped tame flare and improve contrast at a time when coatings were far less advanced than today. Decades later, that combination of sharpness, softness, and subtle rendering has made it a cult favorite among analog and digital shooters alike.
Key Technical Characteristics — Explained Simply
Electronic Shutter & Exposure Modes
The ES II uses an electronically controlled, vertically traveling metal shutter. That means:
- More accurate speeds compared to many fully mechanical SLRs of its age.
- Aperture-priority automation: you set the aperture, the camera picks the shutter speed.
- Manual override for those who want full control.
SMC Takumar 55mm f/1.8 Lens Character
The 55mm focal length sits close to human vision, making it ideal for everyday shooting:
- f/1.8 maximum aperture for low light and shallow depth of field.
- Distinct bokeh with gentle transitions from in-focus to out-of-focus areas.
- M42 screw mount for easy adapting to many modern mirrorless systems.
Modern-Day Usability in 2025
Power and Metering
In 2025, the Pentax ES II still works comfortably as a daily shooter when properly maintained. Its light meter is designed around a 6V battery, but compatible modern batteries make it straightforward to power:
With a suitable 4LR44 or PX28A 6V battery installed, the ES II’s metering system can operate accurately without modification, letting you enjoy aperture-priority exposure with modern power cells.
Handling for Digital Natives
If you are coming from digital cameras, the ES II offers familiar conveniences: a bright pentaprism viewfinder, center-weighted metering, and clear shutter-speed readouts. What it does not offer is automation overload — there is no autofocus, no burst mode, and no instant playback. That “limitation” actually becomes a creative strength.
Creative Applications with the Takumar 55mm f/1.8
Portraits and Dreamy Depth
The 55mm focal length is flattering for portraits, especially on full-frame 35mm film and on digital full-frame bodies. At f/1.8, you get beautifully shallow depth of field that separates your subject from the background.
- ✔ Try shooting wide open at f/1.8 for dreamy depth.
Street and Everyday Photography
On the street, the Takumar feels natural — not too wide, not too tight. Combined with the ES II’s aperture-priority mode, you can react quickly to changing light.
- ✔ Experiment with street photography using film stocks like Kodak Gold 200.
Hybrid Analog–Digital Workflow
With a simple M42-to-mirrorless adapter, the SMC Takumar 55mm f/1.8 becomes a fantastic manual-focus prime for digital cameras. It delivers a cinematic, slightly vintage rendering that many modern lenses smooth out.
- ✔ Adapt the lens to a mirrorless camera for hybrid workflow tests.
Buying Second-Hand: What to Look For
Buying an Asahi Pentax ES II and SMC Takumar 55mm f/1.8 second-hand is a smart, sustainable choice — as long as you know what to check. Here is a practical inspection list tailored to this combo:
- ✔ Check the electronic shutter runs through all speeds.
- ✔ Ensure battery compartment is clean and functional.
- ✔ Inspect lens focus ring for smooth operation.
- ✔ Test exposure automation with a fresh battery.
- ✔ Examine light seals for foam decay.
- ✔ Check M42 threads for smooth engagement.
- ✔ Avoid lenses with visible fungus or severe yellowing.
Minor cosmetic wear is expected on vintage gear and rarely affects performance. Mechanical problems, heavy fungus, or badly corroded battery compartments, on the other hand, can be expensive or impossible to fix.
Making It Work Even Better: Modern Accessories & Workflow Tips
Essential Accessories
Thoughtful accessories can make the ES II system feel seamlessly integrated into a modern workflow:
- Comfortable strap or harness for all-day walks.
- Lens hood to reduce flare and protect the front element.
- M42 adapters for your preferred mirrorless mount.
- Lightweight tripod for long exposures and night scenes.
You can explore compatible photography accessories to round out your kit in a sustainable way.
Film-to-Digital Workflow
To bring your analog images into the digital world, consider:
- Scanning your negatives with a dedicated film scanner or DSLR setup.
- Using consistent color presets to match your preferred film stock.
- Backing up scans alongside your digital files for long-term archiving.
Conclusion — Why the ES II Still Inspires Creativity
The Asahi Pentax ES II with SMC Takumar 55mm f/1.8 sits in a sweet spot between old-school craftsmanship and modern usability. Its electronic shutter and aperture-priority mode make film approachable, while the Takumar lens offers a look that feels both classic and contemporary.
In a world of endlessly updating tech, this combination proves that careful composition and tactile shooting matter more than megapixels. Whether you are rediscovering film, adapting vintage glass to mirrorless, or simply seeking a more mindful way to photograph, the ES II and Takumar 55mm remain a powerful, sustainable choice.
Explore more curated analog cameras and characterful camera lenses at DutchThrift.com to build a system that is both creative and kind to the planet.
FAQs
Can the Pentax ES II still meter correctly with modern batteries? Yes. Using modern 4LR44 or PX28A 6V batteries allows the metering system to operate accurately without modifications, provided the electronics are in good condition.
Is the SMC Takumar 55mm f/1.8 lens good for digital cameras? Absolutely. With an M42 adapter, it delivers cinematic contrast, smooth focus, and expressive character on most mirrorless cameras, making it a favorite for both stills and video.
What should I check before buying a second-hand Pentax ES II? Inspect shutter speeds, metering response, light seals, and lens clarity. Make sure the battery compartment is clean and that the focus and aperture rings move smoothly.
Where can I find accessories for the Pentax ES II? You can find adapters, straps, and other helpful gear in online stores specializing in analog and mirrorless equipment, including DutchThrift’s curated selection of photography accessories.
Ready to dive deeper into sustainable shooting? Browse our selection of analog cameras and matching camera lenses to build your own character-filled kit.