prime35mmdiscontinued
Canon FD 35mm f/2 S.S.C.
Canon · 1975-1990
A classic wide-angle lens with excellent rendering. The concave front element version is optically interesting but may have yellowed with age.
Known for
- Street photography
- Documentary
- Environmental portraits
Considerations
- Some barrel distortion
- Early versions may be yellowed
- Corners soft wide open
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)3/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast4/5
Flare Resistance4/5
CA Control3/5
Vignetting Control3/5
Distortion Control3/5
Bokeh: Pleasant, smooth
Rendering: Classic wide-angle look
Color: Slightly warm
Versions
Concave front element
1975-1979
Front element curves inward, thorium glass (radioactive)
Some copies mildly radioactive, develop yellow tint
Convex front element
1979-1990
Standard convex front element
Non-radioactive, more common
Early versions with concave front elements may contain thorium and develop a yellow tint. UV exposure can reduce yellowing.
Common Issues
- Yellowing (thorium versions)
- Focus ring wear
Buying Guide
Check for yellowing by removing from camera and looking through. Later convex versions are safer and often cleaner.
Specifications
MountCanon FD
Focal Length35mm
Max Aperturef/2
Min Aperturef/22
Aperture Blades6
Min Focus0.3m
Filter Size55mm
Weight255g
Optical Design
FormulaRetrofocus
Elements8
Groups7
CoatingSSC (Canon)
Pricing
£150 - £250
Typical used price
Mint: ~£300
Adapts To
Sony E (with optical adapter)
Find This Lens
Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error