Renowned lens reviewer Christopher Frost has posted a review of Canon's first autofocus lens, the Canon FD 35-70mm f/4 AF.
About the Canon FD 35-70mm f/4 AF
This is the world’s first autofocus zoom lens with an autofocus function using Canon’s own SST (Solid State Triangulation) method. The incorporation of this function into the best-selling FD35-70mm f/4 (June 1979) interchangeable lens brought about automation of focusing for SLR cameras.
The SST method is a system in which information on the photographed object that enters the sensor through two fixed mirrors is converted into an electric signal and distance is measured by a microcomputer, with focusing performed by moving a distance ring with a motor. The latest fixed imaging device CCD (charge-coupled device) technology is adopted to provide high resolution and a broad dynamic range able to detect low to high luminance, making it less susceptible to the contrast and pattern size of the photographed object and enabling highly precise autofocusing. Also, as the SST method does not have a movable section in the distance measuring mechanism, no vibration or electric noise is caused, which provides high-reliability fitting of a high-end SLR camera.
Canon FD 35-70mm f/4 AF Specifications
- Marketed: May 1981
- Original Price: 89,500 yen (approx $789 USD)
- Lens Construction (group): 8
- Lens Construction (element): 8
- No. of Diaphragm Blades: 6
- Minimum Aperture: 22
- Closest Focusing Distance (m): 0.5
- Maximum Magnification (x): 0.15
- Filter Diameter (mm): 52
- Maximum Diameter x Length (mm): 85 x 99.5
- Weight (g): 604
Thanks for sharing.
Cameras have always been a good indication of how quickly technology advances to me. Imagine what we’ll be using in 2050!
I recall a similar zoom range version.
A look at Canon's 40-year-old AF lens, the FD 35-70mm F4 AF
Excellent review.