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prime35mmvintage

Jupiter-9 85mm f/2

LZOS/KMZ · 1950-2005

The Soviet Sonnar with legendary bokeh. The 15 curved aperture blades create some of the smoothest backgrounds in vintage photography. Compact, affordable, and optically excellent.

Known for

  • Portraits
  • Events
  • Available light
  • Video

Considerations

  • Some sample variation
  • Aperture clicks can be light

Optical Characteristics

Sharpness (wide)
4/5
Sharpness (stopped)
5/5
Contrast
4/5
Flare Resistance
3/5
CA Control
4/5
Vignetting Control
3/5
Distortion Control
5/5

Bokeh: Legendary smooth - 15 curved blades

Rendering: Classic Sonnar look with smooth gradations

Color: Warm, pleasing

Versions

Chrome/Zebra

1950-1975

Silver or zebra finish, preset aperture

Collectible, classic look

Black (MC)

1975-2005

All black, multi-coated

Better coatings, more practical

A Soviet copy of the pre-war Carl Zeiss Sonnar 85mm f/2. The 15 curved aperture blades create exceptionally smooth bokeh. One of the best Soviet lenses.

Common Issues

  • Aperture blade oil
  • Focus ring wear
  • Coating damage

Buying Guide

Count the aperture blades - 15 is correct. Check for smooth, even aperture operation. MC versions have better coatings. Excellent value.

Specifications

MountM42 Screw
Focal Length85mm
Max Aperturef/2
Min Aperturef/22
Aperture Blades15
Min Focus0.8m
Filter Size49mm
Weight350g

Optical Design

FormulaSonnar
Elements7
Groups3
CoatingSingle Coated

Pricing

£60 - £130

Typical used price

Mint: ~£180

Good value for 15-blade aperture

Adapts To

Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon ZMicro Four Thirds

Compatible Cameras

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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error
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