The KIRON 2.8/105 macro is a very complex, purpose-designed macro lens from the mid-1980s. It is manufactured completely of metal, the focus is absolutely free from play, aperture mechanism glides on ball bearings. It had an expendable hood - also made of metal - and can be focused without additional aids up to 1:1. At full aperture (2.8) sharpness and contrast are not outstanding but rather moderate, this is completely normal for lenses of this type. But the softer image and good out-of-focus background can be of advantage with portraits. Stopped down past f/2.8 this macro lens is very sharp and brilliant, with the finest detail visible.
(by Wilhelm Zedler, nikon-foto.de)
I use this lens for about two years now, and I love it. It focuses from infinity to 1:1, is perfectly sharp and has a nice bokeh wide open. It has a slightly longer focal length than the Panagor or the Tamron SP 90/2.5, which I find very useful, and has a built-in lens hood.
(by Marcus Frey)
The Kiron (105mm/2.8) is very sharp. In a 1985 FOTO magazine review of macro lenses, it tested better than either the 105mm/2.8 micro Nikkor (manual focus), or the Tokina 90mm/2.5 macro (manual focus).
I found it (Kiron 105/2.8) to be one of (if not the) sharpest lenses I ever owned. Shots typically at F11 were incredible. I used it quite a bit and even the photo finisher who processed my slides asked me what I was using when he saw the results.
(by Peter K.)
Possibly the finest 100-105mm macro tele ever made, at least in manual-focus form. Came in C/Y mount for Contax/Yashica as well as Nikon, Canon, and others. This exact same lens is also encountered labeled as the 'Lester A. Dine' dental macro. A razor sharp lens at all apertures above f2.8, and at f/2.8, a very sharp portrait lens, with very nice bokeh.
(by Glen)
The Kiron 105 2.8 macro, is phenomenal! As good or better than the Nikkor 105 macro. An incredibly sweet chunk O' glass.
(by Russ Butner)
