Asahi Opt. Co. Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8

Asahi Opt. Co. Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 - Good Condition | Classic Fast Standard Prime in M42 Mount

The Asahi Opt. Co. Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 is one of the most beloved and sought-after vintage standard primes ever produced — a legendary lens from Asahi's golden era of optical manufacturing that delivers exceptional sharpness, outstanding low-light performance, and a rendering quality that remains highly sought after by photographers and collectors alike. The Super-Takumar coating ensures good contrast and colour accuracy, while the fast f/1.8 maximum aperture opens up excellent creative possibilities for available light photography and portraiture. The slightly longer 55mm focal length compared to the more common 50mm gives a subtly more flattering portrait perspective — making it a natural choice for portraiture, street, and everyday shooting. In M42 mount, it adapts effortlessly to modern mirrorless bodies via adapter. Serial number SR 2559534.

Key Features

• 55mm focal length — classic standard perspective with a subtly flattering portrait character
• Fast f/1.8 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background separation
• Super-Takumar coating for good contrast and colour accuracy
• M42 screw mount — compatible with a vast range of film and digital bodies via adapter
• Manual focus operation with smooth, well-damped focus ring
• Solid all-metal construction of the highest quality
• A genuine classic from Asahi Optical Co.'s golden era of lens making

Condition Report

• Body: Good condition — light marks consistent with age and use, no cracks or damage to barrel or mount
• Optics: Elements clean and clear — no fungus, haze, or significant dust; coatings intact
• Mechanics: Focus ring operates smoothly and precisely; aperture blades clean and snappy; mount clean and secure

"The Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 is one of those lenses that photographers seek out and never let go of. The rendering at portrait distances is simply beautiful — warm, smooth, and with a three-dimensional quality that modern glass rarely replicates. The f/1.8 aperture gives you beautiful subject separation, and the 55mm perspective is subtly more flattering than a standard 50mm. A genuine classic in good condition."

What's Included

• Asahi Opt. Co. Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8 lens (M42 mount)
• Front and rear lens caps

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Asahi Optical Co. (Pentax)
• Model: Super-Takumar 55mm f/1.8
• Serial Number: SR 2559534
• Mount: M42
• Focal Length: 55mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
• Minimum Aperture: f/16
• Lens Construction: 6 elements in 5 groups
• Angle of View: 43°
• Minimum Focus Distance: approx. 0.45m
• Filter Thread: 49mm
• Construction: All-metal barrel
• Type: Prime Lens
• Category: Lenses
• Condition: Good Condition