The endoscope has an endoscope shaft (2) with an observation opening (12) on a distal end. A transparent cover (13) hermetically seals the distal end. An imaging lens (10) is provided inside the endoscope shaft adjacent to the distal end and spaced apart from the cover. A sealing ring (19) i.e. O-ring, is arranged between the transparent cover and an optical element (14) situated closest to the cover relative to a remaining inner chamber of the endoscope shaft. The sealing ring presses against a circumference of an inner side of the cover facing towards the imaging lens.
