Spiratone 500mm f/8 Mirror Lens

Spiratone 500mm f/8 Mirror Lens - Good Condition | Compact Catadioptric Telephoto in Minolta MD Mount

The Spiratone 500mm f/8 Mirror Lens is a compact and fascinating catadioptric (mirror) telephoto lens that delivers an impressive 500mm focal length in a remarkably compact and lightweight package. Unlike conventional telephoto lenses, mirror lenses use a system of mirrors to fold the optical path — resulting in a much shorter and lighter barrel than a traditional 500mm lens while delivering the same telephoto reach. The characteristic doughnut-shaped bokeh produced by the central mirror obstruction is a distinctive and much-loved creative feature that makes mirror lenses instantly recognisable. In Minolta MD mount, it pairs naturally with the full range of Minolta SR/MD film bodies and adapts effortlessly to modern mirrorless systems. Serial number SR 821049.

Key Features

• 500mm focal length — exceptional telephoto reach for wildlife, sports, and distant subjects
• Compact and lightweight catadioptric (mirror) design — far smaller than a conventional 500mm lens
• Characteristic doughnut-shaped bokeh — a unique and creative rendering quality
• Fixed f/8 aperture — exposure controlled via neutral density filters
• Minolta MD mount — compatible with all Minolta SR/MD film bodies and mirrorless via adapter
• Manual focus operation
• Solid all-metal construction

Condition Report

• Body: Good condition — light marks consistent with age and use, no cracks or damage to barrel or mount
• Optics: Mirror elements clean and clear — no fungus, haze, or significant dust
• Mechanics: Focus ring operates smoothly; mount clean and secure

"The Spiratone 500mm mirror lens is one of those genuinely unique optical tools that rewards creative photographers. The compact size makes 500mm reach surprisingly portable, and the doughnut bokeh adds a distinctive character to out-of-focus backgrounds that is impossible to achieve with conventional glass. In Minolta MD mount it's a versatile and characterful creative tool."

What's Included

• Spiratone 500mm f/8 Mirror Lens (Minolta MD mount)
• Front and rear lens caps

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Spiratone
• Model: 500mm f/8 Mirror Lens
• Serial Number: SR 821049
• Mount: Minolta MD
• Focal Length: 500mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/8 (fixed)
• Lens Type: Catadioptric (mirror)
• Minimum Focus Distance: approx. 1.7m
• Filter Thread: Rear filter slot
• Construction: All-metal barrel
• Type: Prime Lens
• Category: Lenses
• Condition: Good Condition