Table of Contents
Pentax Auto-Takumar 35mm f/2.3
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Summary
The Auto Takumar 35mm f/2.3 is a rare and distinctive wide-angle prime lens produced by Asahi Optical Co. between 1959 and 1962, designed for M42 screw-mount 35mm film cameras. It was one of the fastest wide-angle lenses of its time, featuring a 6-element/5-group optical design, a 10-blade semi-automatic diaphragm, and a maximum aperture of f/2.3—an unusual spec that set it apart from more conventional f/2.8 or f/3.5 offerings. The lens has a minimum focus distance of 45cm, a 62mm filter thread, and weighs approximately 310g, measuring 81mm in length. It lacks internal focusing and uses a manual stop-down mechanism: the aperture closes automatically when the shutter is released but must be reopened manually, a hallmark of early Auto-Takumar lenses. The field of view is 63° diagonal on full-frame, making it suitable for street, documentary, and environmental photography.
Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Pentax |
| Series | M42 Series |
| Model | Auto-Takumar |
| Focal Length | 35mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Format | Full-Frame |
| Image Circle | ⌀ |
| Minimum Focus | 45cm |
| Focus Rotation | ° |
| Iris Blades | 10 |
| Optical Design | 6/5 |
| Squeeze | none |
| Front Diameter | - |
| Filter Thread | 62mm |
| Focus/Zoom Rod | none |
| Native Mount | M42 |
| Data Protocol | none |
| Length | 81mm |
| Weight | 310g |
| Body Telescope | - |
| Body Material | - |
| Focus Drive | - |
| Iris Drive | - |
| Zoom Drive | - |
History
Country of Origin: -
Release Date: 1959
Launch Price: -
Design Revisions: