Angénieux 24mm f3.5 Type R61. The final Exakta-mount version with automatic diaphragm. Chrome finish. Manufactured in 1959.
A lever on the underside of the barrel switches between automatic and manual aperture operation. This type was supplied for both Exakta and Alpa mounts. The distinctive dial-type aperture control and unique styling are unmistakably French lens design at its best. A black-barrel version also existed, though it appears less frequently.
Retrofocus design with 8 elements in 8 groups. Near wide open, the center renders with solid sharpness while the edges become slightly softer. A lens capable of producing images with plenty of character. Minimum focusing distance is approximately 40cm. Accepts 58mm filters. Weight measured at 329g.
Among Angénieux wide-angle retrofocus lenses, the 35mm f2.5 Type R1 and the 28mm f3.5 Type R11 are seen relatively often, but this 24mm R61 is much less common. The earlier zebra-barrel version, the R51, is even rarer. Both the R51 and R61 deliver very appealing rendering.
Minor signs of use with light scuffing can be seen on the barrel, but there are no noticeable scratches or dents. The satin chrome finish remains clean and attractive.
Fully overhauled in February 2026. Automatic-aperture Angénieux lenses are well known for being difficult to service, and many examples still have stiff or uneven helicoid and aperture operation. This lens, however, has been carefully serviced and now offers an excellent, smooth operating feel.
A few very faint cleaning marks are visible on the front and rear elements. When held under strong LED light, slight coating wear can be seen on an inner element, but it is unlikely to affect actual photography. The results of the shooting test were excellent.
Comes with the original front cap.
