Olympus's fast OM wide — the Zuiko Auto-W 35mm f/2, a compact reportage 35mm.
The Olympus OM-System Zuiko Auto-W 35mm f/2 is a fast moderate wide-angle for the Olympus OM mount, introduced in 1975. It was the brighter sibling to the slower 35mm options in the range, giving OM photographers a fast 35mm reportage lens in a typically compact Olympus body. It became a well-regarded everyday and low-light wide within the system.
This is a manual-focus Olympus OM lens with a 35mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2, marked as an Auto-W wide-angle with an automatic diaphragm. The bright f/2 aperture was notable for a 35mm of its size in this period. The confirmed facts are the 35mm focal length, the f/2 maximum aperture and the manual-focus OM mount; element count, weight and filter thread are omitted here rather than stated without verification.
A fast 35mm is a natural documentary and street focal length, wide enough to place a subject in its surroundings yet close to a normal perspective. The f/2 aperture allows work in dim light and gives some background separation for environmental portraits. It suits travel, reportage and general shooting where one versatile lens is wanted, and its compact form fits the small OM bodies well.
The fast 35mm f/2 is more desirable and pricier than the slower OM 35mm variants, so expect a premium for clean examples. Inspect the elements for haze, fungus and separation, which can afflict older wides, and confirm the aperture blades are dry and snappy. Check the focus ring for smooth travel and the aperture ring for firm clicks. It is a popular adaptation choice on mirrorless for its useful focal length and speed.