Helios 44M-2 58mm f/2 - Good Condition | Legendary Soviet Prime with Iconic Swirly Bokeh | A/M Switch Not Functioning

The Helios 44M-2 58mm f/2 is one of the most sought-after and celebrated vintage lenses in the world — a legendary Soviet standard prime whose unique six-blade aperture produces the famous swirly, dreamlike bokeh that has captivated photographers and filmmakers worldwide. Based on the optical formula of the pre-war Carl Zeiss Biotar, the Helios 44M-2 delivers a rendering quality that is completely its own — sharp in the centre wide open, with a characteristic vortex bokeh in the out-of-focus areas that modern glass simply cannot replicate. In M42 mount, it adapts effortlessly to virtually any modern mirrorless or film body. Note: the Auto/Manual aperture switch is not functioning — the aperture itself operates correctly and stops down as expected. Serial number SR 073167.

Key Features

• 58mm focal length — classic standard perspective for portraits, street, and everyday shooting
• Fast f/2 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance and iconic swirly bokeh
• Legendary six-blade aperture — produces unique vortex bokeh unlike any modern lens
• Based on the Carl Zeiss Biotar optical formula — a genuine piece of optical history
• M42 screw mount — compatible with a vast range of film and digital bodies via adapter
• Aperture operates correctly and stops down as expected
• Manual focus operation with smooth, well-damped focus ring
• Solid all-metal Soviet construction built to last

Condition Report

• Body: Good condition — light marks consistent with age and use, no cracks or damage to barrel or mount
• Optics: Elements clean and clear — no fungus, haze, or significant dust; coatings intact
• Mechanics: Focus ring operates smoothly; aperture blades clean and functioning correctly; note: Auto/Manual aperture switch is not functioning — aperture operation is unaffected

"The Helios 44M-2 is one of those lenses that photographers seek out specifically for what it does differently. That swirly bokeh is completely unique — organic, dreamlike, and impossible to recreate digitally. The non-functioning A/M switch is a common issue on lenses of this age and has no practical impact when used on modern mirrorless bodies via M42 adapter, where the aperture is controlled manually in any case. A characterful and capable lens at a fair price."

What's Included

• Helios 44M-2 58mm f/2 lens (M42 mount)
• Front and rear lens caps

Technical Specifications

• Brand: KMZ
• Model: Helios 44M-2 58mm f/2
• Serial Number: SR 073167
• Mount: M42
• Focal Length: 58mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2
• Minimum Aperture: f/16
• Lens Construction: 6 elements in 4 groups
• Angle of View: 40°
• Minimum Focus Distance: 0.55m
• Filter Thread: 52mm
• Construction: All-metal barrel
• Note: Auto/Manual aperture switch not functioning — aperture operation unaffected
• Type: Prime Lens
• Category: Lenses
• Condition: Good Condition