Lens · prime
Canon FD 35mm f/2 S.S.C. (Concave)
Canon · from 1973
Rare35mm
Canon FD 35mm f/2 S.S.C. (Concave): 9 elements in 8 groups, 8 aperture blades, 0.3m minimum focus, 55mm filter thread, 370g. Canon Camera Museum marketing dates: FD35mm f/2 (I) (March 1971); FD35mm f/2 S.S.C. (I) (March 1973).
- Focal length
- 35mm
- Max aperture
- f/2
- Mount
- Canon FD
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 9 / 8
Known for
- Street photography
- Documentary
- Cinematic work
- Character-driven images
Considerations
- Softer corners at f/2
- Some vignetting
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)4, level 4 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)5, level 5 of 5
Contrast4, level 4 of 5
Flare resistance5, level 5 of 5
CA control4, level 4 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control4, level 4 of 5
Bokeh: Character-rich, swirly edges
Rendering: Unique concave character
Colour: Warm, cinematic
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Possible thorium yellowing (reported, not confirmed by cited sources)
- Focus ring wear
- Sticky aperture
Buying guide
Look for the concave front element. Check for haze or yellowing; some sources report thorium glass in this lens (not confirmed by the cited pages).
Specifications
| Mount | Canon FD |
| Focal Length | 35mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Min Aperture | f/16 |
| Aperture Blades | 8 |
| Min Focus | 0.3m |
| Filter Size | 55mm |
| Weight | 370g |
Optical design
| Formula | Retrofocus |
| Elements | 9 |
| Groups | 8 |
| Coating | SSC (Canon) |
| Special | Concave front element |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £300 - £600
- Mint
- ~£800
Indicative, no dated source.