Are you a photography enthusiast looking for a lens that combines exceptional performance with a touch of history? Look no further than the Olympus OM Zuiko Auto-Macro 90mm F2. This legendary lens, affectionately known as “Olympus OM 100,” has captured the hearts of many photographers over the years. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of this iconic lens, providing you with a comprehensive overview.
Design and Construction
The Olympus OM 100 is a classic example of a double Gauss medium telephoto macro lens. It features a front group of six elements and a rear group of three elements. The front group consists of high Gauss elements, while the rear group is a correction group. During focusing, these two groups move at different speeds, similar to lenses with smaller apertures.
While the materials used in the lens may seem ordinary by today’s standards, the third-to-last element, S-LAH66, is quite expensive. The lens does not incorporate ED glass, instead using a combination of lanthanum glass and lead crystal glass to achieve near-spherical aberration control. This choice may have been made to compromise on chromatic aberration control for better near-snap image quality.
Optical Performance
One of the most notable aspects of the Olympus OM 100 is its optical performance. While it lacks ED glass, the lens still delivers impressive results. The lens has very low astigmatism, minimal spherical and comatic aberrations, and a slight amount of field curvature. However, its chromatic aberration is quite noticeable, with blue, green, and yellow wavelengths in the middle focusing well, but short and long wavelengths being less accurate.
This chromatic aberration affects the contrast of white light and causes the best focus points for different frequencies to be different. However, when compared to other lenses with ED glass, such as the Olympus OM 100/2, the OM 100’s chromatic aberration is not significantly worse, which is a testament to its optical quality.
Build Quality and Handling
The Olympus OM 100 is a well-built lens, with a solid feel and a comfortable weight. The lens features a metal mount and a rubberized focus ring, providing a secure grip and smooth operation. The lens also includes a lens hood and a lens cap, ensuring that it is well-protected during storage and use.
The lens is compatible with a variety of Olympus OM system cameras, making it a versatile choice for photographers who own this camera system. Its size and weight make it a great option for those who want a lens that is both portable and powerful.
Applications and Uses
The Olympus OM 100 is an excellent choice for a wide range of photography applications. Its macro capabilities make it ideal for close-up photography, while its medium telephoto focal length allows for a variety of other subjects, such as portraits, landscapes, and wildlife. The lens’s F2 aperture provides excellent low-light performance and a shallow depth of field, which can be used to create stunning images.
The lens’s build quality and handling make it a great choice for those who want a lens that can withstand the rigors of professional use. Its versatility and performance make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s collection.
Conclusion
The Olympus OM Zuiko Auto-Macro 90mm F2, or “Olympus OM 100,” is a legendary lens that has stood the test of time. Its exceptional optical performance, solid build quality, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s collection. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, the Olympus OM 100 is a lens that you should consider adding to your arsenal.
