The Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 is a classic camera lens that was first released in 1936. It belongs to the Tessar type lenses, which are known for their excellent optical performance, sharpness, and versatility. The Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 lens was designed for use in film cameras, specifically those with interchangeable lenses.
**Introduction to Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 Lens**
The Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 lens is highly regarded among photography enthusiasts and professionals for its exceptional image quality. It offers a focal length of 55mm, making it suitable for a variety of photography genres, including portrait, landscape, and street photography.
**Key Features**
1. **Optical Performance:** The lens features a Tessar optical design, which consists of four elements arranged in three groups. This design ensures excellent image sharpness, contrast, and color accuracy.
2. **Aperture Range:** The lens has a maximum aperture of f/3.5, allowing for good low-light performance and the ability to achieve a shallow depth of field. It has a minimum aperture of f/16, providing ample depth of field for landscapes and other scenes requiring maximum sharpness.
3. **Build Quality:** The Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 lens is crafted with precision and durability in mind. It is constructed with high-quality materials and features a metal lens barrel, offering a satisfying feel and robustness.
4. **Ease of Use:** The lens is designed to be user-friendly, with smooth focus and aperture rings that allow for precise adjustments. It also has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and handle.
**Price and Availability**
The Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 lens was initially released in 1936, and it quickly gained popularity among photographers of that era. At the time of its release, the lens was priced at around $50, which was considered quite expensive. However, considering its exceptional optical performance and build quality, many photographers found it to be a worthwhile investment.
As for its availability today, the Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 lens is considered a vintage lens and can be found in the used market or at specialty camera stores. Due to its rarity and collectible nature, the price of this lens can vary significantly, depending on its condition and demand among enthusiasts.
**Conclusion**
The Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 lens remains a respected and sought-after piece of camera equipment even to this day. Its timeless design, exceptional optical performance, and build quality make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s arsenal. Whether you are a vintage camera enthusiast or a professional looking for a versatile lens with character, the Helmes 5.5cmF3.5 lens is sure to deliver exceptional results.
