Phoenix 100mm f/3.5 Macro lens
by Paul Fisher

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SUMMARY

The Phoenix 100mm f/3.5 macro lens (and its Cosina, Vivitar, Voigtländer and Pentax brethren) is an optical device designed and built to a price.

Phoenix AF 100mm f/3.5 Macro Telephoto Lens

Its intended market is the amateur wanting a taste of macro work, or the enthusiast on a strict budget. It is not (I believe) offered as a serious competitor to the micro-Nikkors of this world.

However, if treated carefully, and used with good macro technique, there is no reason this lens will not produce eminently satisfying macro images. It's not rugged, but I believe in looking after my equipment - I don't leave it in the back of a truck. Given some common-sense care and attention, there is no reason the lens should not go on performing for years.

FINALLY

Would I buy one again? If I was in the same financial position as when I first bought this lens - yes, I would have no hesitation in buying it again. Although I now have the Tamron 180, there are many times when the little Phoenix is still used, especially when the Tamron is a little too long for the particular subject.