Vivitar Series 1 70-210mm f3.5 Macro Zoom Lens Olympus OM Mount

Description

The Vivitar Series 1 70-210mm f/3.5 Macro Focusing Auto Zoom is a legendary, first-generation constant-aperture telephoto zoom lens engineered by Kiron (Kino Precision) in Japan for Olympus OM mount 35mm SLR cameras. Celebrated as one of the finest third-party zoom optics ever produced, it features a constant f/3.5 maximum aperture across the entire telephoto range, continuous one-touch push-pull zoom and focus operation, and integrated macro capability down to a 1:2.2 reproduction ratio. Constructed with heavy-duty metal housing, a 67mm filter thread, aperture stops from f/3.5 down to f/22, and VMC (Vivitar Multi-Coating). Serial number 22537049 (22-prefix designating Kiron manufacture). Native Olympus OM bayonet mount. Complete with original metal Vivitar Series 1 front cap and rear lens cap.

Condition

Overall Condition: Good

Cosmetically in very good pre-owned condition showing light handling marks and fine scuffs on the outer black barrel casing. The rubber diamond-grip push-pull helicoid operates smoothly with proper tension throughout focus and zoom ranges. Aperture ring detents distinctly at all marked stops, and internal aperture blades are clean, oil-free, and quick to respond. When tested under strong direct illumination, optics reveal light internal fungus/haze specks on an inner element, though glass remains free from severe scratches with coatings intact. Metal OM bayonet mount is clean and fits securely. Serial number 22537049. Fully functional and operational.

Included

• Vivitar Series 1 70-210mm f/3.5 Macro Zoom Lens (Serial No. 22537049)
• Front Metal Vivitar Series 1 Slip-On/Snap-On Lens Cap
• Rear Olympus OM Mount Lens Cap

Key Features

• Famous Edition 1 (Kiron manufacture, serial prefix 22) of the iconic Vivitar Series 1 70-210mm telephoto line
• Constant f/3.5 maximum aperture for consistent exposure and low-light telephoto performance
• One-touch push-pull zoom and manual focus control
• Built-in Macro mode reaching 1:2.2 magnification ratio at the 210mm focal length
• VMC (Vivitar Multi-Coating) for enhanced contrast and flare control
• Standard 67mm front filter thread size
• Native Olympus OM Mount compatible with classic OM-1, OM-2, OM-10 series film SLRs, and modern mirrorless digital bodies via simple adapters

Collector's Notes

Among vintage lens enthusiasts, the 1st Edition Kiron-built (serial numbers beginning with '22') Vivitar Series 1 70-210mm f/3.5 is regarded as the most desirable variant of this legendary series. Built like a tank with professional optical glass, it proved that zoom lenses could rival fixed prime lenses in resolution and optical contrast during the 1970s. Its constant f/3.5 aperture and excellent macro mode make it a popular classic optic for film shooters and adapted mirrorless camera users.

Keywords

Vivitar Series 1 70-210mm f3.5, Vivitar Kiron 22 Serial, Constant Aperture Macro Zoom, Olympus OM Mount Zoom, Vintage Telephoto Zoom, Vivitar VMC Lens, Tested Olympus Lens

Estimated Valuation

• Fair / Noticeable Internal Fungus/Haze (As Inspected): £25 – £40
• Very Good / Fully Clean Optics & Functional Unit with Caps: £50 – £75
• Excellent / Mint Collector Condition Unit Boxed: £85 – £120+