Minolta CLE + CV 40mm 1.4 VS VS Konica Hexar AF

[giellaleafapmu]

Everyone is different but I have both the CL (not CLE) and the Hexar (original one with silent mode). The second is almost always with me, the first sits most of the time on a shelve. The lens of the Hexar is as good or better than anything but the most expensive and exotic Zeiss or Leica glasses so no differences there, but somehow I find there is about a inch missing in the CL(E) body. Just it doesn't sit well in the hands, if I want a true RF I always go for the M4 and never for the CL. Maybe if it was really pocketable I would not mind some ergonomic problem but for me they take about the same space in any bag I might be carrying so really not so much is gained by the shorter body. Apparently, according to Bellamy, Konica was servicing Hexar still in 2013, it might be the case that through him you can still fix most of the problems of a Hexar. And then, just if this was not enough, there is this (which for some will be a pro-Konica and for other against it):

http://old.post-gazette.com/images4/20070101HO_TV_Annie_Leibovitz_450.jpg

GLF

GLF

 

[Beemermark]

I've had a couple of CLE cameras and really liked them (one was stolen). I also had a Hexar AF. If you going to stick with one lens I'd go with the Hexar. Camera is so quiet it's unbelievable. The lens is among the top 5 I've ever owned. Just ready this post wants me to find another one.

The one PIA with the CLE is that you cannot take a reading in AE and hold it. You have to switch to manual exposure and then there is no meter.

 

[k__43]

I don't know about other places but here it seems the CLE (no lens) fetches prices that are higher than the Hexar and almost on par with the M2.
How is that in the US or Asia or where ever you guys are?

CLs are getting quite cheap here in the moment btw. .. I still have one I wanted to sell (I just got, not the one in my signature). I can't get enough for it so I rather keep it in my drawer as backup

 

[strumer]

In Europe, I found the CLE and HExar to be about the same price.
Regarding this two, my concern is more about the condition of the body!
on the CLE particularly, I am worried about the sensor, rangefinder alignment and light seals !
The hexar seams to be more reliable (he's the youngest after all)

 

[Palaeoboy]

I don't know about other places but here it seems the CLE (no lens) fetches prices that are higher than the Hexar and almost on par with the M2.
How is that in the US or Asia or where ever you guys are?

CLs are getting quite cheap here in the moment btw. .. I still have one I wanted to sell (I just got, not the one in my signature). I can't get enough for it so I rather keep it in my drawer as backup

I just bought a CLE body off that auction site this week for $300 US equivalent in excellent condition. I havent seen an M2 for twice that in reasonable condition. I only bought it cause it was a good buy and now have three. I have no idea what to do with a third body though so it may prove to be a waste in end.

 

[analogpics]

Funny...I took my CLE and voigtlander 40 1.4 to tokyo a couple years ago, ended up buying a hexar af while i was out there since i couldn't focus quick enough. The 1/250th shutter speed max is a real bummer, but seriously, best af of all my cameras, amazingly sharp and fast f2 lens. Glad i have two of them 😉 Still have my CLE too!

 

[uhoh7]

Manual focus at anything above F/4 you have to have great calibration and a good eye. Few street photographers shoot so fast with moving subjects.

F/2 at 40mm is very easy to miss, especially as you get closer.

 

[mackigator]

The CLE is a great handling camera. One of my favorites, and mine died on me not too long ago. I intend to replace it.

 

[f2bthere]

There is a value to playing a game where you lift the camera to your eye and focusing on what you see. Then choose another subject and focus on that. You can play this game at home or any time you have nothing to do. Pretty soon it becomes second nature.