ALPA Kern-Macro-Switar 1.8/50mm with AR Coating Serial Number 1062889
The ALPA Kern-Macro-Switar 1.8/50mm is an excellent standard lens design from the golden age of Swiss optics, featuring advanced anti-reflex coating. With macro capability and a generous aperture of 1.8, this lens enabled flexible close-up work and excellent image quality even in low light conditions already in the 1960s. The AR coating significantly reduces reflections and flare, markedly improving optical performance compared to uncoated designs. This specimen with serial number 1062889 comes from first ownership circa 1961 and presents itself in remarkably original condition with practically flawless glass. A superb piece of ALPA engineering history for collectors and photographers.
Condition
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Optical Condition | Very good. Barrel shows light wear appropriate to age. No scratches, structurally sound. |
| Glass: | Flawless. Extremely clean. Minimal dust inclusions without impact on image quality. Glass elements perfect, no fungus, no haze, no separation. |
| Function | Very good. Fully functional. |
| Mechanics | Focus ring turns very smoothly and fluidly. Aperture ring operates smoothly and precisely. Macro function works flawlessly. |
| JBV Foto Inspection | Fully tested. Aperture, focus and macro function inspected. |
Features of the ALPA Kern-Macro-Switar 1.8/50mm AR
The Kern-Macro-Switar was a state-of-the-art lens for the ALPA platform. The combination of large aperture, macro focusing capability and anti-reflex coating made it a preferred choice for ambitious photographers, professionals and studios. The 1.8 aperture enabled precise focusing and photographic freedom even under challenging lighting conditions. The AR coating significantly reduces reflections and flare, greatly improving contrast and image quality. The optical formula delivers excellent sharpness and natural bokeh — characteristics that vintage lens enthusiasts appreciate to this day. This specimen displays extremely clean glass and smooth mechanics, testament to careful use and storage.
ALPA Kern-Macro-Switar 1.8/50mm AR, circa 1961: Versatile standard lens with macro capability and advanced coating for portrait, macro and everyday photography on ALPA cameras.
Scope of Delivery for the ALPA Kern-Macro-Switar 1.8/50mm AR
The scope of delivery is shown in the pictures.
- Lens: ALPA Kern-Macro-Switar 1.8/50mm AR serial number 1062889
- Original Accessories: Original front lens cap (with light scratches and a small dent on the rim, cosmetic only), original lens hood (with bubbling and wear)
- Documentation: Original brochure
Technical Data
- Lens Type: Standard lens with macro function
- Serial Number: 1062889
- Bayonet/Mount: Standard ALPA bayonet
- Coating: Anti-Reflex (AR)
- Year of Manufacture: circa 1961
- Focal Length: 50mm
- Aperture: 1.8
- Special Features: Macro focusing for close-up work
The ALPA Kern-Macro-Switar with anti-reflex coating is fully compatible with all ALPA cameras featuring standard bayonet mount. The AR coating was an advanced development that significantly reduces reflections on glass surfaces, thereby improving contrast, flare resistance and overall image quality. With appropriate adapters, the lens can also be used on modern digital cameras, offering excellent optical performance and characteristic vintage bokeh for creative photography.
JBV Vintage & Collectable Service
JBV Vintage & Collectable buys and sells analog cameras, lenses and photography accessories in Nuremberg. Shipping is available from Nuremberg to Germany, the EU and worldwide. The team answers questions about the item on weekdays by email. Purchase of collections, estates and individual pieces is possible at any time. Classic ALPA lenses of this quality are increasingly difficult to find in this condition and are packed with special care.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does anti-reflex coating (AR) mean on this lens?
- AR coating was an advanced optical technology of the 1960s that reduces reflections on glass surfaces. This results in better contrast, less flare and overall higher image quality compared to uncoated lenses from the same era.
- What makes the Kern-Macro-Switar 1.8/50mm special?
- The combination of large aperture (1.8), integrated macro function and anti-reflex coating was remarkable for a standard lens of this era. It enabled both portrait and everyday photography as well as close-ups, combined with modern optical performance.
- What condition are the lenses in?
- The lenses are extremely clean and flawless. There are only minimal age-appropriate dust particles with no impact on image quality. Excellent evidence of careful storage over decades.
- Does the lens function completely?
- Yes, it has been fully tested. Focus ring, aperture ring and macro function all operate smoothly and precisely. The lens is ready for immediate use.
- Can this anti-reflex coated lens be used on modern cameras?
- Yes, with an appropriate ALPA-to-digital adapter it functions excellently on modern cameras. Optical quality and the AR coating remain intact, delivering characteristic vintage bokeh with good contrast.
| Item information | Value |
|---|---|
| Category: | Alpa Lenses |
| SKU: | 101901 |
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