Konica M 35 2.0

[kyler.]

Hi guys,
There isn't much information that I can find about this lens, so I thought I would ask you guys.
How does this lens perform?
Does it compare with the big shots?
Where can I get this lens?
Is it rangefinder coupled?
Overall, does this lens get a good grade in your book?


Thanks,
Kyle

 

[ferider]

Among the top two or three M-mount 35/2 lenses. Right up there with Summicron ASPH and ZM 35/2; much sturdier built than the Biogon. Yes it is RF-coupled. They don't come up too often used on ebay, or the usual sites, like KEH, etc.

Roland.

 

[kyler.]

Thanks Roland!
Just to be sure as I realized that there are more than one M konica M mount 35 f/2 lenses i think. which one are you taking about?

 

[f16sunshine]

Matsuistore has had a couple on ebay on and off for the last few months. I have had great experiences with him so far. I don't see them listed now but you might drop him a note.

 

[ferider]

Hi Kyle,

there is a single M-mount, and two LTM-mount versions, AFAIK. The M-mount version is the only one with 0.7m min. focus, and has a concave front element. I was specifically talking about that one. The LTM mount versions are good, but optically a different design (derived from the classic Nikkor 35/1.8) with a more classic look and less emphasis on performance. The M-mount version was designed from scratch by Konica in the 90s.

Roland.

 

[kyler.]

Thank you Roland.
Do you know where I could find some more information on this m mount konica 35 f2 lens?
Maybe even a picture?

 

[Bavaricus]

Have a look at Dante Stellas Page http://www.dantestella.com/technical/hex352.html
There are a few pages on the Konica lenses. Please keep in mind that there is a small difference in the film-flange distance at ht KM-Lenses which will bring problems on your M8.

Thank you Roland.
Do you know where I could find some more information on this m mount konica 35 f2 lens?
Maybe even a picture?

 

[kyler.]

keep in mind that there is a small difference in the film-flange distance at ht KM-Lenses which will bring problems on your M8.

Please explain a little more?

 

[Krosya]

Ok,
first - we have a Konica section here that has many thread on pretty much any lens made by Konica - so take a look. To get you started here is a recent one on M-Hex 35. :
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=89042

second, dont buy into that whole bull about Konica/Leica incompatibility. I have used many many many Konica and Leica lenses/bodies and never a problem. Plus one thing that people often forget - there are Leica lenses that dont focus right on Leica cameras - is that Leica to Leica incompatibility? Just like any other manufacturer - there some tolerance problems or QC problems that lead to some lenses not working too well on some bodies. Happens with EVERY manufacturer.

And last - I have this lens - M-Hexanon 35/2. I used to have UC-Hexanon 35/2 as well. M-Hex is better, but bigger. It's better cause it is sharper, focuses closer and has smoother bokeh. And it's is usually cheaper. Built is about the same on both.
If you have any questiones - feel free, but as I said earlier - look through Konica section - there is a lot of info there.

 

[kyler.]

Thanks Kroysa!
How big is the M-Hex 35 2 in comparison to the Summicron?

 

[SolaresLarrave]

The Hexanon has the 'cron for lunch and leaves no leftovers.

I know, I have one. 🙂 And, as Krosya said, the stuff about incompatibility happened only in the early days. After a certain time, all Konica lenses worked perfectly with Leica bodies.

I know, I have some. 🙂

 

[Krosya]

Thanks Kroysa!
How big is the M-Hex 35 2 in comparison to the Summicron?

I dont have Summicron so I cant give you a "side-by-side". From what I know M-Hex is about same size as ASPH Summilux 35/1.4. Or abou t same as 50mm Summicron.
Here is a link to a photo that compares a few 35mm lenses:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/7174282@N02/2606566627

 

[wintoid]

The Hexanon has the 'cron for lunch and leaves no leftovers.

I had 2 copies of the M-Hexanon 35mm f2 and found it to be smooth but a bit bland in both cases. I far prefer the summicron.

And last - I have this lens - M-Hexanon 35/2. I used to have UC-Hexanon 35/2 as well. M-Hex is better, but bigger. It's better cause it is sharper, focuses closer and has smoother bokeh. And it's is usually cheaper. Built is about the same on both.

Again, I disagree with this. I have had both these lenses at the same time and the UC-Hexanon was my preference. If only the UC-Hexanon focused closer, it would be my ultimate 35 (unless CV worked out how to shrink the f1.2). Unfortunately, that's why I ended up with a summicron.

I don't post to start a fight, only to point out that some of this stuff is subjective.

 

[Krosya]

The only thing I dont like about my M-Hexanon 35/2 is that it has a focusing tab - I hate those things. Maybe on a very small lens it works better but lens it's size should not have one. But, just like anything else - bokeh, etc - it's all personal preference.

 

[Arjay]

The M-Hexanon 35/2.0 is my favorite lens. Hands down. Very sharp, with nice bokeh. For examples, look into my gallery - the majority of pictures there were shot using the 35.

> Where to get it

You have to be patient and monitor Ebay listings world-wide. This lens is probably the most sought-after in the entire M-Hexanon line, and doesn't turn up on Ebay very often.

> Is it rangefinder coupled?

Yes, and it focuses down to 0.7m/2ft.

> Overall, does this lens get a good grade in your book?

Yes. Compared to a Summiccron, you'll get a lot of bang for your buck.

> There isn't much information that I can find about this lens...

Here's a picture of the M-Hexanon lens lineup.

Here are the lens specs, optical construction data and MTF charts

Here is some historical info about M-Hexanon lenses (scroll down to 'Konica M-Hexanon Lenses')

 

[oldoc]

I have had both, shot both extensively.
I much prefer the UC Hexanon I keep on my MP all the time.
Small, light, razor sharp and great build quality.
I don't think there is any comparison.