【Mint】YASHICA AUTO YASHINON 50mm f/2 M42 MF Standard Prime Lens Japan #E0284

• Focus ring works smoothly
• Aperture ring clicks properly
• Aperture blades move smoothly
• Auto/Manual switch works properly

• Light faint scratches on the rear element. Minimal effect on images.
• No fungus
• No haze or fog
• No balsam separation

• Brand: Yashica
• Model: AUTO YASHINON 50mm f/2
• Lens Type: Manual Focus Standard Prime Lens
• Lens Mount: M42 Screw Mount
• Compatible Cameras: Yashica TL series and other M42 cameras; mirrorless cameras via adapter
• Format: 35mm Full Frame
• Focal Length: 50mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2
• Minimum Aperture: f/16
• Angle of View: 46°
• Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.55 m (1.8 ft)
• Aperture Blades: 6
• Focus Type: Manual Focus
• Aperture Mode: Auto / Manual (A/M) switch
• Diaphragm: Automatic (with M42 stop-down pin)
• Aperture Ring: Click-stop
• Depth-of-Field Scale: Yes
• Distance Scale: Feet and meters
• Filter Size: 46mm
• Weight (Approx.): 226 g
• Body Material: Metal
• Made in: Japan

The Yashica Auto Yashinon 50mm f/2 is a classic M42 standard lens from Yashica's screw-mount SLR era, when the company produced cameras such as the TL series. Yashica built a strong reputation for high-quality optics at accessible prices, and this compact fifty is a fine example of that philosophy. It is a dependable and characterful lens for film and digital photography alike.

Optically, the lens delivers sharp, contrasty images with natural colour. At f/2 it offers a gentle softness and pleasing background blur, while stopping down to f/5.6–f/8 produces crisp detail across the frame. Its classic rendering has a warm, slightly vintage feel that suits portraits and everyday scenes. As with most lenses, stopping down one or two stops from maximum aperture brings out its best edge sharpness and contrast.

The all-metal construction feels solid, with a smooth focus ring and positive aperture clicks. The Auto/Manual switch allows stop-down metering on compatible bodies and makes the lens very easy to use with adapters, giving direct aperture control. Its controls fall naturally under the fingers, making it comfortable to use during long shooting sessions. This thoughtful design makes it a reliable tool for everyday use as well as more demanding outings.

The 50mm focal length is the classic standard view, ideal for street photography, travel, everyday shooting and environmental portraits. Its compact size makes it a discreet and comfortable lens to carry all day. It encourages you to explore new subjects and perspectives, which is one of the joys of photography. Its flexibility means it can easily become one of the most frequently used items in your camera bag.

The universal M42 screw mount is one of the great advantages of this lens. It fits a wide range of classic film cameras from manufacturers such as Pentax, Yashica, Praktica, Fujica, Zenit and many others, and can be used on Pentax K-mount bodies with the official-style K-mount adapter. M42 is also among the easiest mounts to adapt to modern mirrorless cameras: with a simple adapter it works on Sony E, Fujifilm X, Nikon Z, Canon RF and Micro Four Thirds bodies, making it a wonderful lens for both film and digital photography.

On APS-C mirrorless cameras the lens becomes a short telephoto of about 75–80mm equivalent, well suited to portraits. Its smooth manual focus also makes it an enjoyable lens for video. It is the kind of versatility that turns a piece of gear into a long-term companion rather than a short-term purchase. For photographers who use both film and digital, this flexibility is a genuine advantage.

This lens is still appreciated because it offers solid image quality, durable construction and vintage character at a very approachable price, making it a perfect entry point into classic lenses. In a market full of disposable products, well-made classic equipment like this offers lasting value. Its enduring appeal across generations of photographers speaks volumes about its quality.

For M42 film shooters, vintage lens collectors and mirrorless users seeking an affordable standard prime, the Yashica Auto Yashinon 50mm f/2 is an excellent choice. We recommend it as a simple, reliable lens with timeless appeal. It would make an excellent addition to your collection or a thoughtful gift for a fellow photography enthusiast. We are confident it will bring you many years of enjoyable and creative photography.