Konica Hexanon L 35mm f2

[scautez]

Hi All, I was wondering if anyone has the chrome version of this lens: Konica Hexanon L 35mm f2. There is not much information available online about the lens but from one review I read it is pretty much the same optically to the UC ltm version. That version goes for a fair bit more $$. If someone has the chrome version LTM I was wondering what it is like to use, and also what is it's weight? Is it actual chrome or just silver coating? Thanks for any assistance.

 

[das]

I've never used this exact version. You probably already know this, but it is the same lens as in the Konica Hexar AF. A modern 35mm f/1.8 W-Nikkor. A little barrel distortion, a lot of focus shift, doesn't focus that closely. Otherwise outstanding. The UC is a prettier package with a beautiful brass barrel but it's essentially the same thing. People who own these lenses typically never get rid of them.

 

[scautez]

Thanks davidde1000. Yes it is interesting lens. The images from the Hexar AF always look good, so getting the same optics in ltm/m mount would be worth it.

 

[das]

It's a real winner. The focus shift thing is a little annoying but the 1.8 W-Nikkor shifts the same way. The Hexar AF actually automatically adjusted the autofocus to account for the known shift. Konica never intended for this to be a standalone lens. Certain camera shops in Japan commissioned Konica to make them in small batches during the 90s. Really interesting.

 

[alan davus]

Yes, both versions do have the same optical formula. I own the UC bought brand new from Japan boxed with all accessories about a dozen or so years ago for US$870 if I remember rightly. They sell second hand for 2 to 3 times that these days. The 50/2.4 L is also a lovely lens, produced in limited numbers but going for little more than a few hundred bucks. It is a real sleeper. Erwin Puts did a very positive review of it many years ago. Wikipedia has a good summary entitled "Konica lenses in Leica screw mount". Worth a read.

 

[f.hayek]

A little barrel distortion, a lot of focus shift, doesn't focus that closely. Otherwise outstanding.

Funny, those are compelling arguments otherwise.

 

[das]

Funny, those are compelling arguments otherwise.

It's not a perfect lens by any means, but pre ASPH 35mm f/2 Summicrons (and Summiluxes) all shift as well as the original W Nikkor. It may matter to someone, it may not. The 0.9m min focus is true to the W-Nikkor heritage. But also, it had to work within the limits of the AF's autofocus system. It is sharp as anything. I think the UC is a fantastic and unique lens for those who want a modern M39 W-Nikkor, but if one is looking for a ASPH Summicron substitute, it ain't it.