P. Angenieux Angénieux Arrieta 50mm f1.8, Type S1, made in 1949, France.
This is a modified version of the Angénieux Arrieta 50mm lens for the Alpa Prisma Reflex, the third SLR in the world to feature a prism finder, following the Contax S and Rectaflex. The modification was done using the body of a red Elmar.
It is a Leica screw mount lens, rangefinder coupled, and has a Double Gauss design with 4 groups and 6 elements. It features the original subtle coating typical of the early Angénieux lenses.
The Type S1 lens delivers a unique rendering, with high resolution in the center when wide open, but with significant softness toward the edges. The peripheral fall-off beautifully harmonizes with its soft rendering. Despite the large aperture, it is compact and lightweight, weighing just 121g, making it an attractive lens that's easy to carry around.
The test shots confirmed the excellent rendering and ease of use, reaffirming the appeal of the S1.
Note: The Rayqual L/M adapter sold by our store cannot be used with this lens, as the infinity lock pin screw interferes with the adapter. However, Leica's official adapters with a wider cutout will work fine. Given the recent price increase of the Type S1 L-mount lenses, enjoying the Angénieux's rendering with this modified L-mount lens is a great alternative.
There are minor signs of use, but the appearance is generally clean. The original black paint remains intact and will fade into a more subdued tone with use, adding to the charm of the lens as it ages.
In January 2025, this lens was modified to Leica L-mount and fully overhauled. The intermediate ring, skillfully crafted by a craftsman with beautiful knurling, is a one-off piece made from high-quality aluminum. Its elegant and well-executed design is impressive. The rangefinder coupling precision is excellent, and it works perfectly with Leica cameras.
This modification is reversible, so it can be returned to its original Alpa mount at any time (screw-in type).
There are approximately 5 to 6 small pinpoint coating defects in the second group of the lens, and two slight mold marks on the edge of the rear element, which could not be fully cleaned, but neither should affect practical shooting.
The test shots taken with the lens displayed the beautiful rendering typical of the S1. The atmospheric depiction is remarkable. Sample images have been posted in the test gallery, and I hope you will take a look.
This lens comes with the Alpa Prisma Reflex body it was originally equipped with, the S1-specific Alpa helicoid components, a genuine ALPA front cap, and a third-party protective filter.
Please note that the Alpa body and helicoid parts have not been serviced, so they are unsuitable for shooting and are intended for display purposes.
