Asahi rare Auto-Takumar 1,8/55mm Zebra | Analogue camera

Although designed for M42 screw-mount cameras. The lens has six elements in five groups, takes 46 mm filters, has a semi-automatic aperture, and was manufactured only for a short period between 1958 and 1959. It was designed for the Asahi Pentax K and is the only Pentax lens with a distinctive “zebra” pattern on the focusing ring where the flat areas between the knurling are highly polished/chromed. The meter and feet scales are white.

Esthetically, the lens is in beautiful condition, moderately used with a few minor scratches (see photo). The engravings are clean and nicely filled with white. Focusing is smooth and the aperture ring turns well with positive stops. The chromed semi-automatic opening lever works as it should and has good return spring action.

Part of my collection which I am currently reorganizing.

The iris blades (there are 10!) snap shut when released and show only very minor wear in the form of a few light marks. The aperture can be set manually as long as the operating lever is not engaged.

The optics are clear but need cleaning as there are spots with some light reflections that do not affect the photograph.