Photography has revolutionized the way we perceive and remember our world. Central to this revolution are camera lenses, the eye of any photographic instrument. Of these, Takumar lenses stand out, both for their history and their renowned quality. Takumar, a brand owned by Asahi Optical Co. (now Pentax Corporation), has consistently been at the forefront of lens design and technology. This essay delves into the illustrious history of Takumar lenses, from their initial development to their status as a staple in the world of photography.

Early Beginnings: Birth of the Takumar Brand

Asahi Optical Co., established in Japan in 1919, initially made eyeglass lenses. In the late 1930s, the company diversified into camera lens production. In 1952, they released their first Takumar-branded lens. The name “Takumar” was a tribute to the founder’s brother, Kumao Kajiwara, who had a fascination for Takuma Kajiwara, an acclaimed Japanese painter.

Takumar lenses, from the onset, were built with an emphasis on craftsmanship, precision, and high optical quality. The earliest versions were designed for Asahi’s medium-format cameras, but the company soon branched into 35mm format lenses.

The Golden Era: Super-Takumar Lenses

Arguably, the golden age of Takumar came with the introduction of the Super-Takumar line of lenses in the 1960s. These lenses had a reputation for their optical brilliance, robust build, and affordability. Asahi Optical Co. was the first to adopt the use of multi-layer lens coating technology – a significant advancement that reduced lens flare and improved image quality.

Super-Takumar lenses became the benchmark for other lens manufacturers. Notably, the Super-Takumar 50mm f/1.4 was a game-changer. Released in 1964, it featured a thorium glass element, which contributed to its unrivalled sharpness, excellent contrast, and stellar low light performance.

Introduction of the SMC Coating

In the early 1970s, Asahi Optical Co. again made waves in the industry with the introduction of Super Multi Coated (SMC) Takumar lenses. The company improved upon the multi-layer coating technology by developing the SMC, a seven-layer, anti-reflective coating applied to all glass-air interfaces. This breakthrough greatly reduced internal reflections and increased light transmission, resulting in superior color rendition and contrast.

This innovation demonstrated Takumar’s commitment to constant evolution and improvement. The SMC coating set a new industry standard, further solidifying the brand’s reputation for optical brilliance.

Transition to Pentax: Pentax-Takumar

In 1975, Asahi Optical Co. rebranded itself as Pentax Corporation, named after its successful Pentax series of SLR cameras. With the change, Takumar lenses became branded as “Pentax-Takumar,” marking a significant shift in the brand’s history.

However, the Pentax rebranding did not affect the high standards of craftsmanship, precision, and optical quality that Takumar lenses were known for. Instead, the company continued to produce excellent lenses under the new brand, furthering its reputation within the photographic community.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Takumar

Today, Takumar lenses are no longer in production. However, their legacy endures. These lenses are highly sought after by photographers worldwide, known for their distinctive color rendition, sharpness, and vintage aesthetic. Despite technological advancements and a shift towards digital photography, Takumar lenses maintain a loyal following and are widely used in contemporary photography.

The history of Takumar is a testament to continuous innovation, exacting standards, and a dedication to quality. The brand’s journey, from its humble beginnings to its evolution into a photography mainstay, provides valuable insights into the development of photographic technology. The enduring popularity of Takumar lenses is a testament to their timeless excellence and their significant role in shaping the world of photography.

In the world of photographic lenses, Takumar has left an indelible mark. It serves as a reminder of how the blend of craftsmanship, innovation, and passion can create tools that not only capture images but also help shape our understanding of the world around us.