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Helios 44 2/58 Soviet 13 Blades KMZ Vintage Biotar copy Portrait Lens Silver
The Helios 44 58mm f/2 KMZ version with 13 blades is a true gem for photographers and filmmakers, offering the perfect balance of vintage charm and optical versatility. Manufactured at the KMZ factory (, this version stands out for its unique bokeh characteristics and robust craftsmanship.
The 13-blade aperture is the highlight of this version, producing beautifully smooth, rounded bokeh even when stopped down. The swirling effect in the background is softer and more pronounced, creating a dreamy and artistic quality perfect for portraits and cinematic scenes.
Wide open at f/2, the lens provides a soft, glowing sharpness that enhances skin tones and adds depth to portraits. When stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6, the sharpness becomes impressive across the frame, making it suitable for detailed work while still maintaining a touch of its vintage character.
The KMZ version is known for its warm, slightly muted tones, delivering a retro aesthetic straight out of the camera. The colors are vibrant yet subtle, perfect for those seeking a nostalgic film-like look.
When shooting into direct light, the lens produces artistic flares and halos, contributing to its signature vintage charm. While flare can reduce contrast slightly, it adds a cinematic glow to images and videos.
The 13-blade aperture ensures perfectly circular highlights at all f-stops, making it ideal for smooth transitions in background blur and artistic subject isolation.
Lens Details:
- Model: Helios-44
- Focal Length: 58mm
- Aperture: f/2.0
- Mount: M42 mount(comes with step up ring m39 to m42)
- Serial Number: lens has different serial numbers but same conditions
- Manufactured: 1950s
- Min. Focusing Distance: 0.5 m
OPTICAL & MECHANICAL CONDITION
- These are vintage lenses, so optics will have some marks and scratches. However, that shouldn’t affect the image quality.
- Front cap and hard case
- Aperture blades are free of oil
- Focus ring works smooth
- Full focus range to infinity
- No dust
- No haze
- Front lens: has scuffs from wiping
- Internal lenses: Ok
- Back lens: has scuffs from wiping
Key Features:
- Cover FULL FRAME & MEDIUM FORMAT sensors
- Built with a combination of glass and metal, this lens is known for its durability and robust construction – built like a tank.
- Based on Carl Zeiss optical formulas, this lens carries a storied legacy in the world of vintage optics.
- Renowned for its stunning, swirly bokeh – a sought-after feature for portrait photography and videography.
- The focus ring moves smoothly, and the aperture blades are oil-free for precise control.
Shipping & Handling:
- Fast shipping: I typically ship the same day after payment is received.
- Shipping to the US: 3-5 business days.
- Worldwide shipping: 9-14 business days.
A tracking number will be provided for your convenience.
Store Benefits:
- Discount for regular customers.
- Frequent updating of goods.
- Rare models disappear from sale quickly, so keep an eye out for new arrivals.
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