Asahi Auto-Takumar 55mm f/2 M42 Camera lens

Asahi (Pentax) Auto-Takumar 55mm f/2 (M42)

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The Asahi Auto-Takumar 55mm f/2 is a classic vintage standard prime, introduced in 1958 alongside the early Asahi Pentax. It uses the M42 screw mount, which became so closely associated with Pentax that it is widely known as the "Pentax screw mount." As part of Asahi's second generation of M42 lenses, it features a semi-automatic diaphragm — an early step on the way to the fully automatic diaphragm — together with robust, all-metal construction and a single-layer anti-reflection coating. As a point of collector interest, this lens was produced by Tomioka under an OEM contract for Asahi.

Please note the semi-automatic diaphragm: the lens has an Auto / Manual (A/M) lever. On a film body that supports it, the aperture is stopped down via the camera; the diaphragm is cocked/opened with the lever. For adapted use (see below), set the lever to Manual so the aperture stops down with the ring.

Compatibility notes:
- M42 universal screw mount. It mounts natively on M42 film bodies (Asahi Pentax, Spotmatic, Praktica and similar).
- It is highly adaptable to virtually all mirrorless systems (Sony E, Fujifilm X, Nikon Z, Canon RF, Micro Four Thirds, L-mount, etc.) via an inexpensive M42 adapter, used in full-manual / stop-down.
- For adapted use, set the A/M lever to Manual.

IMPORTANT — Please read carefully:
The rear element has cleaning/wiping scratches and light haze. As noted by the seller, this may affect images in strong backlit (contre-jour) conditions, where it can cause flare or reduced contrast. In normal, non-backlit lighting the lens remains usable, and some photographers enjoy the resulting vintage rendering — but this should be understood as a flaw rather than a feature. Please read the Known Issues section and check the photos before bidding.

Condition: USED — Good
Pre-owned, with distinct signs of use and minor optical flaws. Please read the Known Issues below before bidding.

Serial Number
Please check the photo.

Appearance
Some scuffs and scratches from normal use.
Please check the photos for details.

Optical Condition
Haze: A little (rear element)
Fungus: No
Scratch: Some wiping/cleaning scratches on the rear element
Balsam separation: No
Dust: Almost none
Shooting Impact: May affect images in strong backlit conditions (flare / reduced contrast); limited effect in normal lighting.

Functional
The helicoid (focus ring) operates smoothly.
The aperture blades are clean and move properly.
The lens has a semi-automatic diaphragm with an A/M lever (see the note above).

Known Issues
- Rear element: Cleaning/wiping scratches are present, along with light haze.
- Shooting impact: In strong backlight this can cause flare or reduced contrast. In normal lighting the effect is limited.

Bundled Items
Lens only.
All items shown in the photos are included. Items not shown (such as lens caps) are not included.

Mount
M42 screw mount

Important Notes for Used Items
As this is a used item, subtle imperfections may exist that are not individually described.

Shipping
We ship via Japan Post (ePacket Light). Your package will be handed over to the local postal carrier in your country for final delivery. For high-value items, we may use FedEx or DHL.
We only ship to registered addresses.
We ship within 3 business days after payment.

Customs and Taxes
Import duties, taxes, and other fees are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are the buyer's responsibility.
Please check with your country's customs office before bidding.
We do not under-declare item values or mark items as "gifts."

Returns and Buyer Protection
Handled in accordance with Catawiki's Seller Terms.
If you have any questions, please contact us before bidding.

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