Angénieux 24mm f3.5 Type R61. The final version for Exakta mount, featuring automatic aperture control. Chrome finish, manufactured in 1963. The lever at the base of the barrel allows switching between automatic and manual aperture modes. This type was available for both Exakta and Alpa mounts. The unique dial-style aperture control and distinctive design showcase the unmistakable charm of French lenses. A less common black barrel version was also produced.

The lens features an 8-element, 8-group retrofocus design. Near wide open, the center renders sharp and well-defined images, while the edges are slightly softer, allowing for atmospheric image creation. The minimum focusing distance is approximately 40cm, and it accepts 58mm filters. The beautifully textured chrome barrel weighs 329g as measured.

Among Angénieux’s retrofocus wide-angle lenses, the 35mm R1 and 28mm R11 are relatively more common, but this 24mm R61 is a rare find. For reference, its predecessor, the zebra-barrel R51, is even rarer. Both the R51 and R61 deliver excellent rendering.

There are minor scuffs and slight shine, but the exterior remains in good condition. No noticeable scratches or dents are present.

All functions operate normally. When inspected under strong LED light, extremely minor coating imperfections are visible on the inner elements, but they are unlikely to affect actual image quality.

Sample images have been uploaded to our gallery. We hope you’ll take a look!