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Model history (2)

Specification

Source of data

• Ricoh XR Rikenon lenses booklet (January 1980).

Manufacturer description #1

"K" Type Bayonet Mount for Superior Interchangeability. Ricoh Optical Expertise for Superior Quality.

Designed with the versatile "K" type bayonet mount, the new line of XR Rikenon lenses opens up a world of creative possibilities. A high quality selection - from wide-angle to telephoto to zoom - offering perfect interchangeability with any camera using "K" type bayonet mount lenses.

Why the "K" type bayonet mount? In addition to superior interchangeability, this system has been acclaimed for ultra-reliable mechanisms. The large-diameter mount yet compact-lightweight design. The 65° rotating angle for fast, easy changing. The overall superb performance. Multi-coated (except 50mm f/2.0) for optimum resolution, contrast and sharpness, with freedom from aberration. Each XR Rikenon lens represents Ricoh's highly-sophisticated optical expertise.

Manufacturer description #2

With a maximum aperture of f/1.4, this is the fastest XR Rikenon 50mm standard lens. Called a standard lens because the angle of view and perspective are like that of the human eye, it is exceptionally easy to use. Precisely designed, it offers edge-to-edge sharpness. Perfect for dimly-lit indoor shots, outdoors at night, sunrise and sunset. Minimum focus is 45cm.

From the Modern Photography magazine (1978):

At present, the Rikenon system numbers a slim seven lenses (28mm f/3.5, 35mm f/2.8, 50mm f/1.4 and f/1.7, 135mm f/2.8, 200mm f/4, and a 70-150mm f/3.5 zoom), but you can also choose from the 40-plus lenses made for Pentax cameras as both have the same bayonet lens mount.

We had the opportunity of testing some of the standard wide angle and tele lenses. All are average in size and weight for their respective speeds and focal lengths, have no truly unique features or bad shortcomings. As our lab test charts show, all perform admirably and were judged to be above average in optical quality - hardly surprising in view of their origin.

The bayonet mount system isn't the only similarity the XR Rikenon lenses have to Pentax. From our test samples, we surmised that optically these are indeed our old friends, the Pentax lenses. But all, except the 200mm, are the older, "pre-compact" versions. The 200mm f/4 is identical to the 200mm f/4 Pentax-M lens.

While there are no ultra-wide-angle or super-telephoto lenses listed in the Rikenon line, the system is complete enough for most amateurs. And, if you need a special-purpose lens, you can most likely find it in the compatible Pentax line.

Other standard prime lenses in the Ricoh K system

Lenses with similar focal length