Kenlock Auto S 135mm f/2.8 (M42)

[fotomachi]

I also made some test shots with another great optic, viz. the wildly exotic Kenlock Auto S 135mm f/2.8 Based on today's experience, I think the lens can give reasonably OK results up to f/8. If you go higher, CA becomes apparent in 1:1 magnifications.

The lens that I tested was optically sound, the front cap was missing, but it came with a leather case (original?). I bought it together with the Auto Tamron 135mm f/2.8 and a Takumar 28mm f/3.5.



Manufacturer: Kenlock
Model: ?
Focal length: 135mm
Aperture range: f/2.8-22
Filter size: 58mm ?
Weight: 377g
Length at infinity (M42 mount): 86mm
Lens hood: ?
Minimal focus distance: 1.8m (6ft)
Serial tested lens: 397228

Suggestions for future reviews always welcome. If you like to buy this lens, it's 18 euro incl. P&P within EU (that is 9 euro for the P&P and 9 euro for the lens).

[Attila]

Looks made by same maker than my Prakticar 24mm f2.8

[LucisPictor]

Attila, compare this lens to the Revuenon 2.8/135 that you got from me. They really look alike: typical 1980s style.

If the Kenlock is as good a lens as the Revuenon, you will really enjoy this 135.

[Attila]

Revuenon is unique from noname door stops
REvuenon is a fine lens others are "door stops"

[fotomachi]

This is not a door stop! This is a Kenlock!!!! Even made in Japan!

It's pretty easy to find Kenlock lenses on the Benelux lens market, I don't know for the rest of world. Up to f/8, I think this lens doesn't do a bad job (nor a specially good one). If you need a door stop, I send you my Super Eyemik.

[Attila]

Hahaha KenLock = DoorLock ...

[Attila]

My Praktica 24mm f2.8 came from this maker that lens also a door stop or hand grenade

[Helios]

I'm afraid it doesn't fit an M-203 Launcher . Better try with a j-11 first version .... This lens looks like an half-dozen lenses in my possession : japanese zenitar 135mm, chinon 135mm , petri 135mm, cosinon , goyo optical , albinar , etc ... same "hardware" ... They are not so bad , i would say " so-so" . Same formula : Triplet with a two elements rear "expander".
There is an interesting test to realize : remove this rear group from one of these lenses and you'll get a authentic triplet , dont forget to screw it on helical or fixed extension tube (30-40mm or shorter is enough) ....

[Laurence]

Is it my imagination? I think the Kenlock lens looks sharper than the Tamron (at least in the images you have shown).

[Attila]

Both are low quality lenses so what is sharper doesn't matter. Old Tamrons are low quality lenses like other "noname" lenses. What Helios said that is true in 99% you can make pictures only one times with them.

[Ballu]

This Kenlock lens is similar to any other screw mount Japanese made 135mm f2.8 lens.
I bought 2-3 different lenses during my initial months of Manual Focussing day, but all are now changed to mount for either VPK lenses or large format lenses.. by taking all the glasses out...

[spiralcity]

I have a few questions about the test shots posted by the op.

1. Why did you use 400 film?
2. Why didnt you use the same suject and distances for every tested lens?