Overview

The Vivitar 135mm f/2.8 Auto Telephoto (Close Focusing version) is a rare, well-built Komine-made lens from 1975-81, praised for its solid metal construction and smooth focus ring. Optically, it uses a 4-element Ernostar design producing beautiful bokeh and good sharpness, though with slight 'romantic softness' and low micro-contrast. Weaknesses include pronounced flare and potential chromatic aberrations. It offers 1:2 close focus at 59cm, but a tripod is recommended for near-macro work. Best suited for portrait, wildlife, or creative telephoto users who appreciate vintage character and don't mind manual focus.