Vintage manual focus prime lens for M42 screw mount cameras.
The Asahi Pentax Super-Takumar 85mm f/1.9 is the earlier of two Super-Takumar 85mm variants, the f/1.9 preceding the improved f/1.8 version. Produced by Asahi Optical in the 1960s for the M42 screw mount, it uses Super-Multi Coating for improved flare resistance. The slightly unusual f/1.9 maximum aperture is a characteristic of the first-generation design.
85mm focal length, f/1.9 maximum aperture, M42 screw mount, Super-Multi Coated (SMC), manual focus, classic portrait telephoto focal length.
The Super-Takumar 85mm f/1.9 is sought for portrait photography for its smooth bokeh rendering and warm Takumar tonality. The f/1.9 version is less common than the later f/1.8 and is distinctly valued by collectors. At f/1.9 the rendering is characteristically smooth; by f/2.8 field sharpness is excellent across the 35mm frame.
Inspect for fungus, haze, and coating condition. Confirm M42 thread engagement is clean. Aperture blades should be oil-free. Check focus helicoid operates smoothly — 85mm telephoto helicoids can stiffen with age. Note: some Super-Takumar glass elements contain traces of thorium oxide; yellowing is normal and reversible with UV exposure.