Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. (1973)
A fast prime from Canon's FD era, built like a vault, with soft bokeh at f/1.2
Overview
The Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. came out in 1973. It is a manual focus lens, part of Canon's push into high-speed normal primes during the FD mount era. The target was low-light work and shallow depth of field. At f/1.2 it isolates a subject with plenty of blur. The lens was later refined into variants like the S.S.C. Aspherical and the FD 55mm F/1.2 AL. The AL reportedly has an aspherical element and a Floating Lens Element (FLE) system to correct aberrations across the focus range.
The lens has its quirks. The front assembly is held by a retaining ring that needs a spanner wrench to remove. That allows servicing, but it also invites tampering. Behind the front element sits a doublet cell, two cemented elements that are prone to fungus if the lens spent time in humid storage. Collectors know this one well. Disassembly for cleaning is a documented process using cold cream and solvent, though the fact sheet cautions that the work carries risk and may be better left to professionals.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Canon |
| Focal length | 55mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.2 |
| Minimum aperture | f/16 |
| Lens construction | 7 elements in 5 groups |
| Aperture blades | 6 |
| Minimum focus distance | 0.60m |
| Filter size | E58 (58mm) |
| Mount | FD |
| Format | FF (Full Frame) |
Key Features
Super Spectrum Coating (S.S.C.)
The S.S.C. designation meant more than marketing. It indicated Canon's advanced multi-coating, designed to reduce flare and ghosting, which matters on a lens this fast.
Aspherical Element in AL and Aspherical Variants
The higher-tier models, the Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. Aspherical and the FD 55mm F/1.2 AL, used an aspherical element to correct spherical aberration, particularly at wide apertures.
Floating Lens Element (FLE) System
The FLE system is reportedly on the FD 55mm F/1.2 AL. It adjusts internal lens groups during focusing to keep image quality consistent from infinity down to the minimum focus distance of 0.60m. Fast lenses tend to lose edge sharpness and pick up aberrations when focused close, and this design counteracts that. It is not confirmed across all variants.
Front Element Retaining Ring and Serviceable Design
The front retaining ring, removable with a spanner wrench, is one of the most distinctive mechanical features. It lets technicians reach the front element and the following doublet cell for cleaning or replacement. Restorers appreciate that. The fact sheet includes a detailed maintenance guide that uses cold cream and Zippo fluid or isopropyl alcohol to remove fungus.
Collectibility & Value
Pre-owned examples of the Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. in near-mint condition list for around $249.99. The value comes from its speed, build quality and Canon's FD-era optics. Fungus is a well-documented flaw, particularly on the inner surfaces of the front element and doublet cell, and it can affect clarity and resale value. There are active repair inquiries in online forums, so demand is ongoing, but so is the need for technical support. Some owners convert the lens to modern mounts like Canon EF.
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