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Canon FD-X 35mm T1.5 vs Canon Type SK 35mm – A/B Lens Test

By May 30, 2025June 4th, 2025Lens, Test Footage

Canon FD-X 35mm T1.5 vs Canon Type SK 35mm – Real-World Lens Comparison

We’ve put together a quick visual test to compare the Canon FD-X 35mm T1.5 vs Canon Type SK 35mm, showcasing how these two rehoused vintage lenses perform side-by-side. The Canon FD-X, rehoused by True Lens Services (TLS), and the Canon Type SK, rehoused by Lensworks Rentals, both offer unique image qualities perfect for modern cinematography. This isn’t a full technical breakdown—instead, it’s a side-by-side comparison showcasing bokeh, lens flares, breathing, and overall image character, filmed under real-world conditions.

Key Highlights:

Bokeh & Image Rendering

  • The Canon Type SK 35mm, rehoused by Lensworks, delivers a classic, low-contrast aesthetic with beautifully rounded bokeh and a soft highlight roll-off. Its vintage roots in Canon’s rangefinder glass shine through with a distinct three-dimensional character, excellent centre sharpness, and low chromatic aberration—a signature of Lensworks’ precision rehousing.

  • The Canon FD-X 35mm T1.5, rehoused by TLS, offers a sharper, more neutral look with smooth bokeh and a modern rendering. It provides crisp detail and a balanced contrast, making it versatile for a range of shooting styles.

Flare Characteristics

  • Both lenses generate striking flares, but with different visual signatures.

  • The Type SK 35mm produces broad, soft-edged flares with a golden glow, enhanced by its vintage coatings—a hallmark of Lensworks’ commitment to preserving the lens’s original character.

  • The FD-X 35mm T1.5 delivers brighter, more defined flares, adding punch and vibrance to the frame.

Focus Breathing

  • The Type SK shows more noticeable breathing, with subtle frame shifts during focus pulls—typical of classic rangefinder designs.

  • The FD-X maintains more consistent framing, with minimal breathing for smoother focus transitions.

Final Thoughts

This A/B test offers a quick look at how these two classic Canon 35mm lenses perform when rehoused for modern cinematography. Whether you prefer the vintage warmth and depth of the Type SK or the crisp, clean look of the FD-X, both offer unique visual characteristics that bring something special to your production.

If you’re looking to experience these lenses yourself, 247kit offers a range of vintage and modern cinema glass for hire from our location in West End of London.

🔗 Visit our Lens Hire Page to find the perfect lens for your next project.

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