Even if I own the famous Zeiss MC Flektogon and Mir-1, this is the 35mm lens I adore and use the most. It has something I cannot point my finger at. It's just the way images feel, the colors and rendering. It maybe not as sharp as the Flektogon and not have its 0.20m focusing distance. It doesn't have the Mir-1 swirly bokeh, but it does have its own kind of magic and character, and I love it.

Like other Yashinon lenses, it is prone to flaring, and its flares are like a rainbow.

The handling and build of of this lens are so smooth and solid that the experience of shooting with it becomes inspiring; in comparison, the Zeiss MC Flektogon and Mir-1 feel like unreliable tin cans.

I was very lucky to get a near mint copy at an auction, in my experience this optic is rather difficult to come across, especially in such good condition. It was only produced roughly between 1966 and 1972, hence its scarcity.

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Why use the Auto Yashinon DX 35mm f2.8:

1) Sharpness

2) It produces "Bubble bokeh" when used wide open

3) Very unique character

4) Beautiful rendering in both color and black and white

5) Compact and light

6) Sturdy, exceptional quality construction, made by Tomioka Kōgaku K.K.

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Weaknesses:

None

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