M42 fit Helios 58mm f/2 44M
- 58mm
- Prime
- M42 Mount
£59 Sold
Condition report
Checked in HarrogateLens optics are clear. Cosmetically excellent.
- Testing
- Fully tested
- Warranty
- 6 months
- In the box
- Lens
Open Mon–Sat, 9:30am–5pm
Questions about this one?
Ask the people who tested it. We’ll check any detail or send extra photos before you buy.
- 4.9 on GoogleFrom 137 reviews
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60+ yearsIndependent, in Harrogate
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Warranty includedUp to 12 months
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Secure checkoutPayments by Shopify
The details
At a glance: Pentacon / Helios 58mm f/2 44M - cult Soviet M42 prime with 'swirly bokeh'.
About this lens
The Pentacon M42 Helios 58mm f/2 44M is the legendary Soviet 58mm prime - famous for its 'swirly bokeh' at wide aperture, characterful rendering, and affordable price. M42 screw-mount means it adapts to nearly any modern mirrorless camera. A cult lens in the adapted-mirrorless community.
Build & handling
| Autofocus | Manual focus only |
|---|---|
| Minimum focus distance | 0.50m |
| Filter thread | 49mm |
| Weight | 230g |
| Construction | All-metal, multi-coated (MC variant) |
Works with
- M42 screw-mount film bodies (Praktica, Zenit, Pentax Takumar, and many others)
- Modern mirrorless via M42-to-[system] adapter (manual focus only)
Best for
A cult classic - the Helios-44 (and 44M variant) delivers distinctive 'swirly bokeh' at wide apertures that photographers specifically seek out for portrait and artistic work. Soviet-era manufacture means build quality varies, but optical character is the appeal. M42 mount means it adapts to any mirrorless system (Fuji X, Sony E, MFT, Canon R, Nikon Z, Leica SL) with a simple M42 adapter.
Frequently asked questions
What's 'swirly bokeh'?
At f/2 wide open, the Helios-44's out-of-focus backgrounds show a characteristic spiral/swirling pattern. This is an artifact of the optical design (undercorrected spherical aberration at the edges of the frame). Highly prized for portrait work where the distinctive rendering adds visual interest.
Why buy from Bass & Bligh
Bought from a real shop, not a warehouse.
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Ordered a Panasonic four thirds lens dispatched on the Monday after purchase and delivered on the following Tuesday great service. Tried on the camera and initial thoughts are wow pin sharp and clear photos. Thank you
George P.Ordered a lens onlineA proper little treasure trove
3rd time I've been to this shop to treat myself to some new kit. Always very friendly and knowledgeable. Fairly priced too. I would highly recommend a visit if your nearby and looking for camera gear. I'd say if they don't have what your looking for, it's probably not possible to find anywhere. It's a proper little treasure trove.
Philip B.Third visit to the shopBrilliant advice with awesome customer service
Sure you can buy online and possibly save a few pounds.. but if you require and appreciate knowledge and brilliant advice with awesome customer service then it's a no brainer...This is a real camera shop like it used to be back int day..
Malcolm S.