Lens · prime
Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C.
Canon · 1971-1979
Vintage35mm
Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C.: 7 elements in 5 groups, 8 aperture blades, 0.6m minimum focus, 58mm filter thread, 565g. Canon Camera Museum marketing dates: FD55mm f/1.2 (March 1971); FD55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. (March 1973); FD55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. ASPHERICAL (March 1975).
- Focal length
- 55mm
- Max aperture
- f/1.2
- Mount
- Canon FD
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 7 / 5
Known for
- Available light
- Portraits
- Adapted video use
Considerations
- No aspherical element
- Heavy (565g)
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)3, level 3 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)5, level 5 of 5
Contrast4, level 4 of 5
Flare resistance3, level 3 of 5
CA control3, level 3 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control4, level 4 of 5
Bokeh: Dreamy, ethereal
Rendering: Soft glow wide open
Colour: Warm, vintage
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Sticky aperture
- Focus ring wear
- Haze/fungus
Buying guide
Check for haze and fungus. The later 50mm f/1.2 and 50mm f/1.2L are different designs.
Specifications
| Mount | Canon FD |
| Focal Length | 55mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.2 |
| Min Aperture | f/16 |
| Aperture Blades | 8 |
| Min Focus | 0.6m |
| Filter Size | 58mm |
| Weight | 565g |
Optical design
| Formula | Double Gauss |
| Elements | 7 |
| Groups | 5 |
| Coating | SSC (Canon) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £150 - £300
- Mint
- ~£400
Indicative, no dated source.