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The Jupiter-8 is a very old 50mm f/2 lens with a 40.5mm filter size manufactured from 1950-1974 in the Soviet Union. This model was made in the mid to late 1950's; for some reason there is something special about using a lens that was manufactured over 60 years ago. These lenses are very plentiful on the used market, and there are various different models and manufacture years. If you are looking for a newer model from the 70's choose one of the black models. Being a lens manufactured in the Soviet Union these lenses are extremely affordable typically found under $60 even in mint condition. I picked up my model for only $50 from eBay. I have heard there are some defective versions out there and being from the Soviet Union I wouldn't doubt it, but personally I received a perfect version with very minimal blemishes. Considering that there is a good chance this lens managed to outlive it's manufacturer, this lens is tremendously great condition. I would advise spending more for the better version like I did to insure you receive a good model. The Jupiter-8 carries a classic LTM or Leica thread mount; this means that you can adapt this to new and old Leica or M-mount cameras as well as any mirrorless cameras. I have a M-mount adapter on mine because I frequently use it on my Bessa R2.
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The Jupiter-8 is constructed of all metal and glass and it comes in a very small package. The outside is made of a polished aluminum which looks great and adds to the vintage aesthetic. The Jupiter has an unusually long focus throw for a rangefinder which is great for precise focusing, but it makes quick focusing more difficult. The focus ring is very smooth and there is a textured portion on the focus ring that helps to prevent slipping while focusing. The aperture ring is clickless which means you have to look at the lens to know when your aperture stops are. This is great for shooting video, but it makes for a bit slower shooting when changing apertures. These lenses are only single coated with a very soft glass; this means that the front element of this lens will be scratched very easily. Even this model in near mint condition has quite a few scratches on the front element, but this does not effect image quality. Scratches will create more flare in images which can make shooting on sunny days difficult.
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