Konica 52mm f/1.8 (1965–1974)
A standard prime lens for Konica’s 35mm SLR system cameras, produced from 1965 to 1974.
Overview
The Konica Hexanon AR 52mm f/1.8 is a manual focus lens designed for Konica's 35mm SLR cameras using the AR bayonet mount. Marketed as a standard "kit" lens, it was commonly bundled with Konica SLRs during its production run from 1965 to 1974. Though slightly longer than the typical 50mm standard, it performs optically similar to its 50mm sibling and delivers a dream-like rendering at wide apertures. The lens was also sold under variant names like "Hexar" for earlier F-mount models, but the AR-mount version carries the "Hexanon" branding.
Specifications
| Focal length | 52mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 |
| Minimum aperture | f/16 or f/22 |
| Aperture blades | 6 or not specified |
| Lens construction | 6 elements in 5 groups |
| Mount | Konica AR |
| Filter diameter | 55mm or 52mm |
| Minimum focus distance | 0.45m |
| Weight | 229 grams, 238g, 185g, or 1.7 lbs |
| Length | 42,2 mm or 48 mm or 6 in |
| Diameter | 62,3 mm or 65 mm or 6 in |
Design
The lens features a metal focusing ring with splined grip, a chromed depth-of-field scale ring, and a separate metal distance scale. Optical construction follows the Ultron-type 6-element, 5-group design. The lens hood and filter both mount via a 55mm or 52mm screw thread. Optically, it is nearly identical to the contemporary Konica 50mm f/1.8, with the 52mm variant offering a slightly tighter field of view.
Context
The Konica Hexanon AR 52mm f/1.8 served as the standard kit lens for Konica’s AR-mount SLR system, succeeding earlier F-mount versions labeled "Hexar." While branded differently across mounts, the optical formula remained consistent between the Hexar and Hexanon versions of the 52mm f/1.8.
Market
Modern resale prices vary by region and condition. A certified used example was listed at $168.00 AUD on Kamerastore (Australia) and 515.00 RON on Kamerastore (Romania). Other used listings have appeared around $59.99 to €125. The lens is noted for solid build quality and sharp performance wide open, though some users caution about busy bokeh at mid-apertures.
eBay Listings
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