Fujinon 50mm f/1.2 – Leica Screw Mount
Released in 1954, this example bears a serial number in the 5006xx range.
Following the earliest white-barrel version, this is the later black-barrel model, which uses aluminum extensively. The focusing scale is in feet.
It features a modified Sonnar-type optical design with 4 groups and 8 elements, utilizing newly developed glass types. Filter thread size is 58mm. The lens alone weighs 404g.
This lens emerged during the height of Japan’s fast-lens race, alongside legendary competitors such as the Zunow 50mm f/1.1, Hexanon 60mm f/1.2, and Nikkor 50mm f/1.1 — a group we affectionately refer to as the Big Four here at our shop (just our personal nickname, of course!).
Production numbers for the Fujinon f/1.2 — combining both the early white and later black versions — are estimated at around 800 units. While that’s relatively high compared to other ultra-fast Japanese lenses, top-condition examples are becoming increasingly scarce with each passing year.
For reference, the original list price in 1958 (Showa 33) was ¥75,000. By comparison, the Fujinon triplet lenses were priced as follows: 35mm f/2 at ¥45,000 and 100mm f/2 at ¥35,000.
There are some signs of paint wear and minor scuffing on the helicoid and aperture rings, but the rest of the barrel remains in clean condition, with no dings or dents.
Fully overhauled in April 2025.
The somewhat tricky helicoid design at the base of the barrel — typical of Fujinon lenses — has been finely tuned, and now both the focus and aperture rings move smoothly and effortlessly, allowing you to enjoy precise focusing even at wide apertures without stress. Rangefinder coupling is spot-on from close range to infinity.
The front element shows a faint scuff mark near the center, but it should have little to no effect on actual image quality. Otherwise, the glass is free from noticeable cleaning marks or haze — bright and clear.
The original front and rear caps, as well as the retaining ring for the filter, are not included, but it does come with a combination filter ring/hood and a Kenko 58mm UV filter.
