I didn't want to let a whole month pass without a post, so here is the Cosinon Auto 1.4. I was surprised to find this on a Argus STL 1000 that I was given a while back. I expected the Cosinon f/1.8 that usually came with that model. I wasn't able to find much firm info on this lens. Some say it was made by Tomioka and it was also sold under such brands as Revuenon and Rikenon. It probably dates back to the early 1970's. It is mostly of metal construction and is more solid and heavier than most modern lenses. The optical design is 7 elements in 6 groups.
For a test I used the lens wide open on a Canon digital SLR. I am pleased with the sharpness, colors, and bokeh. I'd say that if you run across one of these at a reasonable price that it would be worth picking up. I saw one that recently sold on Ebay for $23.95 and another for $43. So it's likely this lens could be a bargain for an f/1.4.
Some more images wide open.
Lastly, one at f/11.
