Kino Precision Kiron 80-200mm F/4.5 MC Macro Type 2

The Kiron 80-200-mm f/4.5-f/32 continuous-focus, one-touch zoom has a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:4. Like the Kiron 70-210-mm zoom, this model has a zoom-lock switch that permits a photographer to set the lens to any focal length setting and have it remain there until released. This feature facilitates focusing without any concern about accidentally changing the focal-length. Its filter size is a relatively small 55-mm, weight is 620 g, and overall length is 139.5 mm (Nikon mount). It will be sold in the same mounts as the 28-105-mm lens. The 80-200-mm f/4.5 will be available in October or November.

"Zoomlock" is a unique feature allowing locking-in the focal length at any point along the entire range thus preventing unwanted focal-length shifts occuring with single-touch zooms. Rubberized, studded, 2 3/4 in.-wide control ring is used for one-touch zoom/focus with continuous focusing to "macro" position. Smooth, well-damped movement facilitates easy control, zoom lock definitely prevented any tendency of zoom control to slip when lens is pointed downward. Kiron's distinctive blue footage numerals, white meter, focal length and f/stop numerals are easy to read. Built-in lens hood extends 1/2 in. over lens lip when focused to "macro" position. Satin black finish is of good quality.

Relatively compact, it is 139.5 mm (5.5 in.) long and weighs only about 624 g (22 oz.). Filter size is 55-mm. At any focal length, it can be focused from infinity to a marked 4.5 ft. (1.3 m), but actually to 37 in. (1.05 m) in the macro. Like the 70-210-mm Kiron, it has a Zoomlock, and there is no separate macro ring; the lens focuses directly into the macro range at any focal length! At 200-mm and macro, the image magnification is 1:4.

Version with ZOOMLOCK switch for locking-in any desired focal length.

There are at least three versions of this lens, which can be identified by serial number:

• x64xxxxx - #1 version, different front end, slightly longer zoom grip and heavier, 1982-83;
• x69xxxxx - #2 version, 1983-85;
• x83xxxxx - #3 version, 1985-86? Similar external appearance to #2 but different internal construction.

The main photo shows the #2 version (s/n x69xxxxx).

The weight and size are indicated for lenses with serial numbers x64xxxxx.

Lenses with serial numbers x69xxxxx and x83xxxxx weigh 616g, have maximum diameter of 67.5mm and length of 129mm.

• Independent-brand lenses were made for 35mm film SLR cameras by companies that competed with the camera manufacturers. Some came from factories that made lenses under their own brand names (Angenieux, Kiron, Sigma, Tamron, Tokina). Many others were national and international marketing organizations (Kalimar, Panagor, Rokunar, Soligor, Starblitz) that bought lenses from anonymous manufacturers. One firm — Vivitar — actually designed its own lenses and accessories, which were then subcontracted to manufacturing firms. Still others were private labels, sold only by specific photo specialty shops (Cambron, Quantaray, Spiratone).