Superb working condition Helios 44-4 58mm f/2 Swirl Bokeh lens that comes with a M42 mount, optically really nice, some minor coating marks as seen by the rear optics nothing that effects use, cosmetically has marks to the casing as can be seen in the images but doesn’t effect use, casing towards rear has a tiny bit of play but again doesn’t effect use and hardly noticeable.
This lens is from the old Soviet era and many were made. The lens is robust and built like a tank. Good value for money. This lens has a unique characteristic that it gives a swirly bokeh wide open. The lens is reasonably sharp wide open with soft corners which improves very much closed down. Sharp at f8 and corners not too bad. Suffers from flare but can be used for an old style effect. This lens when used correctly is good fun and gives some unique bokeh effects. Every photographer needs one of these in their collection.
The Helios 44 range is fantastic value, simply the best vintage lens for the price. It's built like a tank, easily serviceable, and due to the large numbers made also readily available. It creates incredible bokeh. This lens should be in everybody's lens bag, especially if you shoot digital.