Yasuhara T981 Rangefinder with original 50/2.8 lens (M39) – unused

The Yasuhara T981 is a Leica-thread mount camera from Yasuhara Co. Ltd. About four thousand T981 were made. The T981 has a TTL light-meter with electronic readout and has a compact shape, with a hinged rear door for fast film loading, non removable take-up spool and a large viewfinder window that is easy for spectacle wearers to use. For the shutter mechanism, which is the heart of the camera, the established and reliable Copal vertical metal shutter is used, commonly fitted to SLR cameras.

The cameras began shipping in the Spring, of 1999. The name “Isshiki” was given to the camera, which in Japanese means “Complete” or “All you need” and is embossed into the top plate in Japanese Kanji characters. For some unknown reason, the camera is also named as “T-981”, which is a mystery that only it’s designer knows the answer to.

This particular example is in near new condition. It looks like it has never been used. It comes with the original lens as well (50mm f2.8), which in itself is quite rare and hard to find. The sticker to protect the shutter curtains is still in place, and the little bag to prevent moisture is also still installed.