Pergear 50mm F1.2

The Pergear 50mm F1.2 is a manual focus portrait prime for APS-C mirrorless cameras with a retro design. It is offered for Fujifilm X, Sony E, Nikon Z, Canon RF and Micro Four Thirds in black or silver. On APS-C it gives a field of view like 75 mm on full frame, according to Pergear, which suits portraits. On Micro Four Thirds the field of view is narrower still. The design takes cues from a 1981 AIS 50mm f/1.2, as the maker puts it.

Optical design

Pergear specifies 7 elements in 5 groups and a diaphragm with 11 rounded blades. The maximum aperture is f/1.2. The company says this combination is meant to produce smooth, circular out-of-focus highlights. Pergear does not publish the minimum aperture or details about special glass types, so these data points remain open here.

Focusing and handling

Focusing is manual, and the aperture ring is de-clicked, which Pergear recommends for video work. The closest focus distance is 0.7 m, which is a typical value for a portrait lens but not suited to very close subjects. One unusual feature is the luminous distance scales: the markings carry a fluorescent coating that glows in the dark so settings can be read at night or during astrophotography. The lens has no autofocus and no image stabilizer.

Build and size

Pergear gives a weight of 360 g, which it describes as compact for a lens with this maximum aperture. The company does not state length, diameter or filter thread in the product page, so buyers who plan to use filters should check the thread size before buying. The specification applies to all mounts.

Where it fits

Alternatives for APS-C with manual focus include the 7artisans 50mm F1.2, which is offered for Sony E, Fujifilm X, Nikon Z and Micro Four Thirds, and the Samyang / Rokinon 50mm F1.2 ED AS UMC CS for Fujifilm X, Micro Four Thirds and Sony E. Full frame autofocus 50mm f/1.2 lenses such as the Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM or the Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art are a different class in size, weight and function. Within the Pergear range, the 25mm F1.7 is the shorter companion.

Pros and cons

Pros

• f/1.2 maximum aperture with 11 rounded blades
• Luminous distance scales
• De-clicked aperture ring for video
• Offered for five mounts in two colours
• 360 g

Cons

• Manual focus only
• Minimum focus distance of 0.7 m
• Minimum aperture, filter thread and size are not specified by the maker
• No image stabilization

Verdict

The Pergear 50mm F1.2 is a bright manual portrait lens for APS-C and Micro Four Thirds cameras at a low price point. It appeals to photographers who value a fast aperture and a retro look and who are comfortable focusing manually.