Angénieux Type Y2 135mm f/3.5

Angénieux Type Y2 135mm f/3.5

The Angénieux Type Y2 135mm f/3.5 is a scarce French telephoto supplied in original Leica screw mount with rangefinder coupling. This profile records that factory LTM version rather than later conversions of the more common reflex-mount lens.

Optical qualities

Rendering

The Type Y2 uses four elements in four groups, a simple telephoto construction characteristic of its era. Published formal testing of the original LTM version is limited. Collector reports generally emphasize a gentler wide-open image and smoother tonal transitions than modern 135mm designs, with improved definition after stopping down.

Handling

At 135mm, accurate rangefinder calibration is important because small focusing errors are readily visible. The broader Type Y2 family focuses to about 1.5m, and the original Leica version provides coupled focusing.

History

Development and Launch

A documented original Leica M39 example is dated circa 1944, placing the Type Y2 among Angénieux's wartime and immediate postwar still-camera lenses. The same optical family later appeared in Exakta, Rectaflex and M42 mounts.

Production Evolution

Flashback Camera documents Type Y2 production across the 1940s through the 1960s and confirms the 4/4 optical formula. Mount-specific barrels differ, so only factory Leica screw-mount examples belong to this profile.

Special Editions/Variants

Metre and feet scales may occur. No distinct factory special-edition catalogue number beyond Type Y2 is confirmed for the LTM version.

Collector Notes

Factory LTM examples are rare and should not be confused with adapted SLR lenses. Verify the original focusing mount and rangefinder cam when cataloguing an example.