Yashinon-DS 50mm f/1.9 - Good Condition | Vintage Japanese Glass with Smooth Character

The Yashinon-DS 50mm f/1.9 (S/N: 40121694) is a classic standard prime lens from Yashica’s prestigious manual-focus era. Renowned for its solid Japanese construction and beautiful optical rendering, this lens offers a fast f/1.9 aperture that excels in low-light conditions and creates a soft, pleasing background blur (bokeh). The "DS" series is particularly valued by vintage enthusiasts for its reliable mechanical feel and its ability to produce images with a natural, warm color palette. Utilizing the universal M42 screw mount, this lens is a versatile masterpiece that can be used on a wide variety of vintage film bodies or easily adapted to modern digital mirrorless systems for a distinctive, character-rich aesthetic.

Key Features

• Versatile 50mm focal length providing a natural perspective similar to the human eye

• Fast f/1.9 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth-of-field

• Universal M42 screw mount compatible with a vast array of vintage cameras and modern adapters

• Robust all-metal barrel construction for a tactile and durable shooting experience

• Six-element optical design for impressive center sharpness and vintage character

• Smooth manual focus ring with a generous throw for precise adjustments

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: Lenses

• Lens Mount: M42 Screw Mount

• Focal Length: 50mm

• Aperture Range: f/1.9 - f/16

• Category: Lenses ▸ Prime Lens

• Filter Size: 52mm

Specialist Note "The Yashinon-DS 50mm f/1.9 is a fantastic example of the 'Golden Era' of Japanese optics. While many people chase the f/1.4 versions, the f/1.9 is often overlooked—which is a mistake. It is exceptionally sharp in the center and has a very unique way of rendering out-of-focus highlights that modern lenses simply can't mimic. On a digital sensor, it produces a lovely, slightly lower-contrast look that is perfect for cinematic video or portraits. This specific unit feels wonderful; the focus is dampened just right, making it a joy to use for deliberate, manual photography."

Condition Report Good condition. The lens barrel (S/N: 40121694) shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear on the metal ridges consistent with its age. The optics are clear, free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The manual focus ring operates smoothly throughout the range, and the aperture blades are clean, snappy, and free from oil.

What's Included

• Yashinon-DS 50mm f/1.9 Lens (S/N: 40121694)

• Front Lens Cap

• Rear Lens Cap