Konica 135mm (1973–1987)
A manual-focus telephoto lens for 35mm SLR cameras with Konica AR mount, offered in f/2.5 and f/3.5 versions
Overview
The Konica 135mm is a telephoto lens for 35mm SLR cameras with the Konica AR mount. Two main versions are documented. The Hexanon AR 135mm f/2.5 was announced in 1973. The 135mm f/3.5 (late) came in 1978 and stayed in production until 1987. The f/3.5 late version has a rubber focus grip and a minimum aperture of f/22, which suggests a design update over earlier versions. The f/2.5 traces back to a 1961 F-mount lens, which was adapted to the AR mount in 1965.
Specifications
| Focal length | 135mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/2.5 and f/3.5 |
| Minimum aperture | f/22 |
| Mount | Konica AR mount |
| Optical construction | 4 elements in 4 groups |
| Minimum focus distance | 1.2m |
| Aperture blades | 6 |
| Filter size | 62mm |
| Weight | 650g |
| Dimensions | ⌀69×96mm |
Design
The Konica 135mm f/3.5 (late) has a rubber focus grip and is noted for its compact size and light weight. The f/2.5 has a focusing ring for manual operation and the same AR mount compatibility. Both versions are built for durability and smooth handling on Konica SLR bodies.
Context
The f/2.5 was positioned as a faster alternative to slower 135mm lenses like the f/3.2 and f/3.5, which makes it better suited to low light. It stayed in production through the 1970s and 1980s, outlasting the earlier compact 135/3.5 models, which were discontinued by 1970. The f/3.5 late version, introduced in 1978, is a refined iteration within Konica's telephoto lineup.
Market
The Konica 135mm f/2.5 has turned up on the used market at prices from $74 to €129, with one listing at $120 OBO. Forum users have called it a "steal" at under $100. No common failures or maintenance issues are reported.
eBay Listings
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