Originally posted by Fenwoodian .
Unless you are exceptional at lens repair, I'd encourage you to stay away from any lens with separation. Repairing lens separation is not a do it yourself project. You are from the USA. I am not aware of any lens repair service in the USA that repairs separated lenses.
I doubt this lenses' look is really all that unique. I have dozens of lenses with swirly bokeh and bubble bokeh - they're really not all that rare.
I know of only one bokeh lens that's truly unique and rare - the Kilfit (something or other) is the only lens ever made with bokeh balls that have double rings.
I went through a swirly soap-bubble bokeh phase too. In time, I tired of it, and now prefer lenses with smooth cream-style bokeh.
Considering it can do what the Zeiss Biotar 75mm f/1.5 which is a $2,100.00 lens or the cheaper and optically better alternative the Helios 40 for a fraction of either of what the both of those lenses cost. I'd say it's worth it. Perhaps not this particular copy, but if I could find another lens like it I would be delighted to add it to my collection. Neither of those two lenses do bubble bokeh with swirl.
Here's two example photos of the lens in question. If you know of any that can render like this please let me know.
"now prefer lenses with smooth cream-style bokeh"
I like those kind of lenses too. I have one so far that is my favorite it is the Super-Takumar 50mm F1.4 (8-element variant).