Helios-44M 58mm f/2

Helios-44M 58mm f/2 - Good Condition | Standard Prime Lens | Legendary USSR "Swirly Bokeh" Glass

The Helios-44M 58mm f/2 (S/N: 7826535) is one of the most iconic and sought-after vintage lenses in the world, originating from the Soviet Union's Krasnogorsk Mechanical Works (KMZ). Based on the legendary Carl Zeiss Biotar 58mm f/2 optical formula, this lens is globally renowned for its unique "swirly bokeh"—a distinct circular background blur that adds a cinematic, ethereal quality to portraits and nature shots. Featuring a fast f/2 maximum aperture and a classic six-element design, the Helios-44M provides exceptional central sharpness combined with a soulful, vintage rendering that modern lenses cannot replicate. Built with a robust all-metal barrel and high-quality Soviet glass, it is a tactile and creative tool for any photographer.

Key Features

• Fast f/2 maximum aperture for beautiful low-light performance and shallow depth-of-field

• Iconic 58mm focal length providing a natural perspective with slight telephoto compression

• Famous "Swirly Bokeh" effect, highly sought after for creative portraiture

• Robust all-metal and glass construction designed for a lifetime of manual use

• Eight-blade diaphragm (in the 44M variant) for smooth out-of-focus highlights

• M42 screw mount, making it the most easily adaptable vintage lens for modern digital systems

• Tactile manual focus ring with a long, precise throw for critical focusing

Introductory Paragraph The Helios-44M 58mm f/2 is far more than just a lens; it is a creative instrument that captures light with a specific character. This specific unit (S/N: 7826535) belongs to the "M" series, which introduced a more modern, rugged housing and an "Auto/Manual" aperture switch, making it incredibly easy to use on both vintage Zenit SLRs and modern mirrorless cameras via a simple adapter. The 58mm focal length is slightly longer than a standard 50mm, offering a perfect balance for street photography and portraits. Whether you are seeking that vintage "flare" or the legendary swirly backgrounds, the Helios-44M offers a level of artistic expression that has made it a cult favorite for decades.

Condition Report Good condition. The lens barrel (S/N: 7826535) shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its age. The optics are clear, free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The manual focus mechanism is smooth and well-damped across the entire range. The aperture ring clicks firmly at all stops, and the diaphragm blades are clean and free of oil. The M42 screw mount threads are in excellent condition, ensuring a secure fit to your camera or adapter.

Specialist Note "The Helios-44M is the lens that gets everyone hooked on vintage glass. What I love about this S/N: 7826535 is how it handles micro-contrast; it’s surprisingly sharp in the center, but the way the edges 'melt' into that signature swirl is pure magic for portraits. It reacts to light in a very beautiful way, producing a warm, nostalgic flare that modern coatings often eliminate. On a modern Sony, Fujifilm, or Canon mirrorless body, this lens feels right at home. It’s an overbuilt, mechanical masterpiece that reminds you why we fell in love with photography in the first place."

What's Included

• Helios-44M 58mm f/2 Prime Lens (S/N: 7826535)

• Front Lens Cap

• Rear Lens Cap (M42)

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: Lenses

• Lens Mount: M42 Screw Mount

• Focal Length: 58mm

• Aperture Range: f/2 - f/16

• Category: 2. Lenses ▸ Prime Lens

• Filter Size: 52mm