Table of Contents
Pentax-A* SMC 200mm f/4 Macro ED
Summary
The SMC Pentax-A* 200mm f/4 Macro ED is a legendary manual-focus macro lens introduced in 1984 for the Pentax K-mount, and produced until 2000. It was the only A*-series macro lens ever made, and remains one of the most revered optics in the Pentax lineup—designed for true 1:1 reproduction with a long working distance, making it ideal for insects, flowers, and studio macro work where subject distance and lighting flexibility are critical. Optically, it features a 10-element - 9-group design, including one ED (Extra-low Dispersion) element to minimize chromatic aberration. The lens stops down to f/32, focuses as close as 55cm, and delivers 1.0× magnification without extension tubes. It uses a 58mm filter thread, weighs 895g, and measures 71 × 145mm. The lens includes a built-in sliding hood, tripod collar, and a manual aperture ring with “A” setting for full automation on compatible bodies. There’s no internal focusing, but the lens employs a fixed rear-element extension (FREE) design to maintain optical alignment throughout the focus range.
Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Pentax |
| Series | A* Series Macro |
| Model | SMC |
| Focal Length | 200mm |
| Max Aperture | f/4 ED |
| Min Aperture | f/32 |
| Format | Full-Frame |
| Image Circle | - |
| Minimum Focus | 55cm |
| Focus Rotation | ° |
| Iris Blades | 8 |
| Optical Design | 10/9 |
| Squeeze | none |
| Front Diameter | 71mm |
| Filter Thread | 58mm |
| Focus/Zoom Rod | none |
| Native Mount | Pentax K |
| Data Protocol | none |
| Length | 145mm |
| Weight | 895g |
| Body Telescope | - |
| Body Material | - |
| Focus Drive | - |
| Iris Drive | - |
| Zoom Drive | - |
History
Country of Origin:
Release Date: 1984
Launch Price:
Design Revisions: