Yashica MC Zoom 35-70mm 1:3.5-4.5
The Yashica MC Zoom 35-70mm f/3.5-4.5 is a vintage zoom lens from Yashica, who was known for producing affordable yet high-quality optics in collaboration with Carl Zeiss during the late 20th century. This lens was likely produced during the 1980s.
(C/Y) mount.
Focal length: 35-70mm, which provides a moderate wide-angle to short telephoto range.
Aperture range: f/3.5 at the wide end (35mm) to f/4.5 at the telephoto end (70mm),making it a relatively modestly fast zoom lens.
Optics: Multi-coated (MC), which helps to reduce lens flare and improve contrast and color reproduction.
Push-pull zoom mechanism.
Unique blue and purple flares.
11 elements, 8 groups.
Minimum focus distance: 0.8m
Aperture blades: 6
Size: 70 x 62mm
Weight: 330g
$50 USD + shipping. Paypal.
The aperture and focus on this lens move smoothly, though the body shows signs of use with wear, cleaning marks, and surface scratches. There’s plenty of dust and haze but, notably, no fungus. By conventional standards, this lens might look ready for the trash—but in reality, it produces exceptional images. I’ve been continually impressed by its soft rendering, beautiful skin tones, and vibrant multi-color flares. Paired with a good grade, this lens truly shines.
I discovered this less tucked away in my house and tried it out when my other lenses were out on rental. Now, I’d like to pass it along to someone who will truly appreciate its unique character.
