Alternative Konicas

[pshinkaw]

I just picked up Konica Auto S2 made for Montgomery Wards. It's a cheap way to get an Auto S2. It was sold as an AM 551 (or AM551). It seems to be identical to the Auto S2 except for the top plate which is slightly different. I paid less than $10. There is also an Am 550 which is the Ward's version of the Konica Auto S. The AM 551 had an instruction manual that was printed in 1967.

If you want to try one these cameras, it's an alternative way to get starrted at a bargain price.

-Paul

 

[thejazzguy]

i have a konica half-frame with a montgomeryward label on it. it's cute, but not in the same league with the auto s2, which is one of the best fixed lens rf's of all time. i am certain you will enjoy that camera. thanks for the info.

http://therangefinder.org

 

[Taipei-metro]

Hi Jazzguy,
Enjoy your site,great photos!
Many pros in Japan still use the Autocord.You also has the Diacord which I saw it once in a camera show.
I have a Rolleiflex with that 75mm 3.5 Schneider.How do you like the lens on the Autocord or Diacord,any seeable difference?
Thanks!

 

[thejazzguy]

taipei
thanks for visiting the site. i love the autocords and diacord. the biggest difference is between the two autocords--one of the lenses had an abrasive cleaning at some point, and it creates this soft, diffused halo effect.

the other autocord is in great shape. the lens is tack sharp, as is the diacord. i have not noticed any difference yet in image quality between the two. the literature i have read suggests that both the rokkor and rikenon lenses are 4-element tessar style.

i choose to take the diacord on my latest trip to india, mainly because it has a meter. i found this to be a fantastic travel camera because of the nostalgia and curiousity it arouses in other people. i met and photographed dozens of people approaching me that i would not have otherwise approached.

i have never had the pleasure of shooting a rolleiflex but i'm sure i would like to own one and compare it with the others someday.