Lens · macro
Canon FD 50mm f/3.5 Macro
Canon · from 1973
Canon FD 50mm f/3.5 Macro: 6 elements in 4 groups, 6 aperture blades, 0.232m minimum focus, 52mm filter thread, 235g. Canon Camera Museum marketing dates: FDM50mm f/3.5 S.S.C. (March 1973); New Macro FD50mm f/3.5 (June 1979).
- Focal length
- 50mm
- Max aperture
- f/3.5
- Mount
- Canon FD
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 6 / 4
Known for
- Macro photography
- Copy work
- Small products
- Documents
Considerations
- f/3.5 limits general use
- Short working distance at 1:2
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Bokeh: Smooth, neutral
Rendering: Flat field, precise
Colour: Neutral, accurate
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
FDM 50mm f/3.5 S.S.C. (breech-lock)
1973-1979
Chrome breech-lock ring; 55mm filter
6 elements in 4 groups, 310 g
New Macro FD
1979-1989
All-black, bayonet-style mount; 52mm filter
6 elements in 4 groups, 235 g
Native 1:2 magnification; life-size with Canon's life-size adapter (Canon Camera Museum). 6 elements in 4 groups.
Common issues
- Helicoid wear
- Focus ring stiffness
Buying guide
Check the helicoid operates smoothly and the glass is clean.
Specifications
| Mount | Canon FD |
| Focal Length | 50mm |
| Max Aperture | f/3.5 |
| Min Aperture | f/32 |
| Aperture Blades | 6 |
| Min Focus | 0.232m |
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Weight | 235g |
Optical design
| Formula | other |
| Elements | 6 |
| Groups | 4 |
| Coating | SSC (Canon) |
| Special | Optimised for close focus |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £80 - £150
- Mint
- ~£200
Indicative, no dated source.