Used Zenit EM (Moskva - 80) + Helios 58mm f2 35mm SLR Camera
Condition & contents
| Grading | Good |
|---|---|
| Testing | Fully tested |
| Warranty | 3 month warranty |
| Includes | A s Shown |
At a glance: Zenit EM (Moskva-80) + Helios 58mm f/2 - Soviet-era 35mm SLR with cult-favourite swirly-bokeh lens.
About this lens
The Zenit EM (Moskva-80) + Helios 58mm f/2 is a 1980s Soviet-era 35mm SLR - all-mechanical, manual-focus, screw-mount (M42). Bundled with the famous Helios-44 58mm f/2 lens, known for characterful bokeh (including the 'swirly' bokeh effect at wide apertures). A heritage Soviet camera with cult following.
Build & handling
| Type | 35mm manual-focus SLR |
|---|---|
| Film format | 35mm (135) |
| Shutter | Mechanical focal-plane, 1/500 to 1/30s + Bulb |
| Metering | Centre-weighted (selenium-cell or no meter depending on variant) |
| Weight (body) | Approx. 800g |
| Kit lens included | Helios-44 58mm f/2 (M42) |
Works with
- Accepts M42 screw-mount lenses (the 'universal' mount used by many brands)
- Helios-44 58mm works on any M42 body, and via adapters on most modern mirrorless cameras
- Uses 35mm (135) film
Best for
A Soviet-era Zenit - all-mechanical, built like a tank, paired with the legendary Helios-44 58mm f/2 lens. The Helios-44 is known for 'swirly bokeh' at f/2 wide open, a characterful artifact of its optical formula that's highly prized in artistic portrait and nature work. M42 mount means you can use it on modern mirrorless cameras via adapters.
Frequently asked questions
What's 'swirly bokeh'?
The Helios-44 58mm f/2's optical formula produces a characteristic spiraling/swirling effect in out-of-focus backgrounds at wide apertures. Highly prized for portrait and artistic work where you want distinctive bokeh character. Can also be used on mirrorless digital cameras via M42 adapters.
Specifications
| Type | SLR Film |
|---|---|
| Condition | Used |
| Brand | Exakta |