Not bad at all: Vivitar 70-150mm 1:3.8 Close Focussing Auto Zoom

Cost: $19.99 (average market price $21.38)

There are actually two version of this lens. A one push, and an earlier two push lens. Both were made by Kino Precisions. The one tested here is the two-push version. It's a simple but good looking lens, with a nice retractable hood.

This lens is regarded as one of the better Vivitar zoom lenses of that time. It was possible to also purchase a matched 2x multiplier, developed specifically for this lens, getting you to a whopping 300mm without to much quality loss.

Build and operation are decent, with an all metal build, smooth focus and focal range. The aperture ring could be a little smoother for my taste, but that can just be the age of the lens.

Image quality is very decent with warm colors, and good sharpness across the frame. This is still a very usable lens today, especially with mirror-less camera's.

Lens Specification:

Focal Length: 70-150mm
Maximum Aperture: F3.8
Minimum Aperture: F22
Image Format: 35mm
Optics: 15 elements in 10 groups
Blades: 6
Focussing: Manual
Minimum Focus: 150cm (40cm in macro mode)
Filter Size: 52mm
Weight: 585g
Length: 114-120mm
Production: Around 1980
Serial Number: 22760239
Made in: Japan

More information on: Vivitar Corporation
More info on: Kino Precision Industries Limited

Samples

1/1600 sec - ISO200 - Handheld

1/160 sec - ISO125 - Handheld

1/1000 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/250 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/250 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/400 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/250 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/200 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/1250 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

Sources:

Pentax Forums

flikr.com