Standard lens for Alpa Alnea, Kern Switar (Auto-Switar) 50mm. An apochromatic lens with a 5-group, 7-element construction. The helicoid distance scale is marked in feet.
This Auto-Switar, equipped with a shutter release button, is said to have been produced in 5,785 units between 1955 and 1966. Although it shares the same optical design as the later Macro-Switar, this earlier version employs radioactive glass, resulting in a slightly different rendering. Radiation emission has been confirmed by simple measurement with a dosimeter.

There is some loss of black paint around the filter rim at the front end of the barrel, but overall the exterior is in good condition.
Fully overhauled in September 2025. Both the aperture and helicoid operate very smoothly, providing a pleasant shooting experience.
There are a few minor cleaning marks on the front element and very slight coating deterioration on the inner side of the front element, but these have no effect on photography.
Test shots also showed excellent results. Please take a look at the sample images in our test gallery.