Canon FL No.138758: A Legendary Lens from the Golden Era of Photography

Introduction: Why Canon FL No.138758 Matters

In the vast world of vintage photography gear, few names evoke as much curiosity and admiration as the Canon FL series. Among these, one particular serial number—Canon FL No.138758—stands out. This isn’t just a random number; it marks a piece of photographic history from a golden era when craftsmanship and optical performance were top priorities. Whether you’re a collector hunting for rare optics or a photographer looking for a unique lens to adapt to your mirrorless camera, the Canon FL No.138758 lens deserves your attention. In this guide, we’ll explore the lens’s background, design, performance, compatibility, and why it holds enduring value in the modern age.

A Brief History of Canon FL Lenses

The Canon FL mount was introduced in 1964 as a successor to the R-mount and a precursor to the FD system. These lenses were designed for Canon’s SLR cameras, such as the Canon FX, FP, and Pellix. Built during an era when lens manufacturing was an art, FL lenses were known for their solid metal construction, warm glass coatings, and mechanical precision.

The FL series helped establish Canon as a global optical powerhouse and laid the groundwork for the later FD lenses that defined the 70s and 80s.

Canon FL No. 138758, by its serial number, was most likely produced between 1965 and 1968, during the peak years of FL innovation.

Canon FL No.138758: Technical Specs (Estimated)

While there is no public database confirming exactly what focal length matches No.138758, its serial number and features suggest it may be from one of the following popular models:

• Canon FL 50mm f/1.4
• Canon FL 55mm f/1.2
• Canon FL 58mm f/1.2

Here’s what you can expect based on the characteristics of these models:

Feature	Description

Mount Type

Canon FL bayonet

Focus

Manual focus (helicoid mechanism)

Aperture Type

Preset or semi-automatic diaphragm

Max Aperture

Likely f/1.2 to f/1.8

Build Quality

All-metal housing, engraved markings

Lens Coating

Single or amber multi-coated optics

Minimum Focus Distance

~0.6m (varies by model)

Filter Thread Size

Likely 58mm (standard for this era)

Weight

400–600g depending on model

The lens is likely radioactive (thorium-based glass), which was used in the fastest FL primes (like the 58mm f/1.2) to increase refractive power.

Image Quality & Performance

If you’ve never shot with a vintage FL lens, you’re in for a unique experience. Here’s what makes Canon FL No.138758 special in terms of image output:

Creamy Bokeh and Shallow Depth of Field

Thanks to its likely wide aperture (f/1.2–f/1.8), this lens produces a dreamy, cinematic bokeh that brings portraits to life. Backgrounds melt away, and subjects pop with depth.

Vintage Rendering with Modern Appeal

Colors appear warm and slightly subdued—ideal for nostalgic street photography, moody landscapes, or retro-styled portraits. Unlike modern clinical lenses, this one has personality.

Sharpness (When Stopped Down)

Wide open, expect a bit of softness and possible chromatic aberration (especially around bright edges). But stopped down to f/4–f/8; this lens is sharp and contrast-rich.

Adaptability to Modern Cameras

One of the reasons Canon FL No. 138758 remains relevant today is its easy adaptability to modern digital systems.

Compatible Camera Systems

• Sony E-mount (A7, A6000 series)
• Canon RF-mount (EOS R series)
• Fujifilm X-mount
• Micro Four Thirds (Olympus, Panasonic)

With an FL to the mirrorless adapter, you can use this lens manually on your modern camera. The all-manual operation teaches discipline and enhances your creativity.

DSLR Compatibility

Adapters exist for Canon EF DSLRs, but you may lose infinite focus without an optical element. This may degrade image quality.

Canon FL No.138758 vs Modern Lenses

So, how does this old gem compare to modern glass? Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	FL No.138758	Modern Equivalent (e.g., Canon RF 50mm f/1.8)

Autofocus

Manual only

Fast and silent AF

Build

All-metal

Plastic-metal hybrid

Optical Rendering

Vintage & warm

Clinical & sharp

Adaptability

Manual adapter only

Native or mirrorless

Cost

$80–$250 (used market)

$150–$400+

While newer lenses outperform FL glass in precision and convenience, they often lack the artistic charm and timeless aesthetic that lenses like the Canon FL No. 138758 offer.

Why Collectors and Photographers Love FL No.138758

Serial Number Uniqueness

The specific number No.138758 identifies a limited production unit, increasing its desirability among collectors.

Solid Engineering

These lenses were built to last decades—and they have. Many are still fully functional today, boasting buttery-smooth focusing rings and solid aperture clicks.

Thorium Glow & Radioactive Legacy

Some Canon FL lenses (especially ultra-fast f/1.2 types) contain thorium elements. These can turn yellow over time, adding an even warmer tone. Some enthusiasts even UV-treat the lenses to restore clarity.

Iconic Design

The mechanical precision, knurled metal rings, and beautifully engraved markings make it a showpiece for any gear shelf.

Market Value and Buying Tips

If you’re looking to buy a lens marked Canon FL No.138758, here’s what you need to know:

Condition	Price Estimate

Excellent (mint)

$200–$300

Good

$120–$180

Average

$80–$120

Non-functional

<$50 (for parts or display)

What to Check Before Buying

• The focus ring should be smooth
• Aperture blades should be snappy and oil-free
• No severe fungus, haze, or deep scratches
• Confirm lens mount (Canon FL) and serial (No.138758)

Where to Buy

• eBay (search by serial number or model)
• KEH Camera
• Local vintage camera stores
• Facebook Marketplace/photography forums

Cleaning and Maintenance

Canon FL lenses are durable but still require care:

• Store in a dry place (use silica gel)
• Use a soft lens cloth and blower for dust
• Avoid opening the lens unless you’re experienced with disassembly

Final Thoughts: Is Canon FL No.138758 Worth It?

If you’re a photographer seeking unique vintage rendering or a collector who values history, design, and optical character, Canon FL No.138758 is a fantastic piece of gear. It’s a throwback to a time when lenses were crafted—not mass-produced—and each serial number told a story.

While it may not compete with modern autofocus lenses in speed or sharpness, its charm lies in its imperfections. Canon FL No.138758 isn’t just a tool—it’s a creative partner, a tactile experience, and a conversation piece.

FAQs: Canon FL No.138758

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