Zenit Helios Lens 44-2, 58 mm, 1:2, M42

Bought this in 2019 for around 50 bucks from the Ukraine. As there's so many raving reviews and footage out there already, I'll just confirm that and say that it's one of the easiest and rewarding purchases you will ever make if you are starting out in photography and filming. The unique look you get from these old lenses will not only help you get very pretty pictures, it will inspire you to experiment and become more creative as well in your work. Bear in mind that a lot of these lenses' filter threads have been dented over time as was the case with mine. So I'm not able to put an ND on it, which reduces usability for video work. I have shot short films and talking head interviews with it though, so there's cases where you can use it professionally. You need to be very good at pulling focus though to make it work. Photography def even more useful!

It’s a nice vintage lens and a good price for this famous lens. I did end up getting a 1978 MMZ version with “Helios” in Russian text… which for anybody wondering it’s the same lens-the English writing was made for export vs the Russian writing was made to be domestic use. (That’s the only difference and in my opinion I prefer the Russian text anyways) looks to be decently serviced no oil or gunk on the blades. Has the famous bokeh I want. Of course some wear from it being a vintage used lens and sometimes a little tough to move/handle butttt in my opinion that gives it character and is to be expected in a vintage lens. Ultimately I’m very satisfied with the price, build, and quality. Plopped on an adapter and got to shooting!

Arrivato con qualche giorno di ritardo ma non per causae diependenti dal venditore in quanto il pacco è stato fermo alla dogana in Italia.... Pacchetto buono, protezione interna dell'obiettivo ottima e condizioni dell'obiettivo stesso assolutamente eccellenti, quasi pari al nuovo. Qualità costruttiva incredibile degna della vecchia e gloriosa CCCP: tutto metallo e lenti come si deve. Scopo primario dell'obiettivo essere imortale. Montato su Canon 6d con adattatore M42 to Canon Eos funziona perfettamente in modalità assolutamente e unicamente manuale, ma rende immagini strepitose con un effetto bokeh fantastico. Assolutamente consigliato per utenti esperti di fotografia in quanto la messa a fuoco, soprattutto a f2, risulta abbstanza complessa e difficoltosa. Ottima la ghiera della MAF morbida ma non troppo, con una certa resistenza ma non troppo dura. L'incredibile quantità di lamelle del diaframma si fa vedere in maniera meravigliosa sullo sfocato. Fantastico è valso ogni giorno di attesa.

I’ve wanted one of these for a while just to see what all the hype was about. Rolled the dice and got a 1976 Valdai. Optically, there’s not an imperfection to be found, and it’s super clean. Body has slight wear and just enough of a ding on the outside ring that won’t take a filter. Focus is smooth, and aperture adjustments are tight. Used a Fotasy adapter to Canon RF, and everything fits together tightly. For what they are the price is slightly high, but I’m still glad I picked one up in pretty good condition.

Good lens, it was good that it could focus a litle bit closer.

Spettacolare lente vintage, tenuta in buone condizioni. Mi riservo di testarla sul campo nella prossima stagione