Angénieux 35mm f2.5 Type R1. This is an early R1 version with finely knurled rings, manufactured in 1952. Original Leica screw mount with rangefinder coupling. Retrofocus optical design with 6 elements in 5 groups. Distance scale in feet, with a minimum focusing distance of 3.5 feet (approx. 1m). The filter diameter is 51mm or 51.5mm, but as the fit is quite critical, we recommend checking with the actual lens.
This early Angénieux R1 has aged beautifully over more than seven decades. Originally finished in deep black, the front section has gradually faded through use and age, revealing a distinctive bluish tone as the dark navy finish has worn away. A truly special lens, appealing for both its rendering and appearance. Some slightly earlier Type R1 examples develop a gunmetal or greenish patina over time. A rare find.
Previously sold by our shop, this lens has been carefully used by its owner and has now found its way back to us once again. This is our third time offering it for sale!
There are some small scratches and minor paint loss around the front edge of the lens. Overall, it has a nicely aged appearance, with much of its glossy black finish still intact. Quite a nice-looking example.
Fully overhauled in 2025. Thanks to careful servicing, both the aperture ring and helicoid retain a smooth, well-damped feel with just the right amount of resistance. Angénieux lenses make extensive use of aluminum parts, and many examples suffer from looseness or excessively light operation. This one is in a different league, offering exceptionally smooth and precise handling. Rangefinder coupling is also spot-on.
The glass shows some minor coating deterioration and a few small scratches on the front element, but it is still remarkably clean for an Angénieux lens.
Our shooting test results were also excellent. Sample images from our previous sale are available in our Test Shoot Gallery. We hope you will take a look. A lens that delivers delicate, expressive images with a gentle softness near wide open.
Comes with the original front cap and an MS51.5 hood fitted with a protective filter. As the front element sits very close to the front edge of the barrel, this hood provides valuable protection and peace of mind during use.
