Konica Genba Kantoku (Late 1980s–2001)
A rugged, fixed-lens 35mm film camera built for durability, with a built-in voice memo function, made for industrial environments.
Overview
The Konica Genba Kantoku series is a line of compact, fixed-lens 35mm film cameras built to last in harsh working conditions. Konica sold them as tools for professionals on construction sites and industrial job locations. They were tough, weather-resistant and reliable. "Genba Kantoku" translates to "Site Supervisor," which tells you who the buyer was meant to be. Variants include the Konica Genba Kantoku 28WB (1988), the Konica Genba Kantoku 28 (1990), and the Konica New Genba Kantoku (1992). The New Genba Kantoku replaced the original Genba Kantoku (MS-40) and has a 35mm lens. Some models were also sold under the name Konica MS-40. Production ran from the late 1980s into the mid-1990s, and continued until at least 2001 for certain versions.
Specifications
| Type | Compact film camera; viewfinder, fixed lens |
| Film Format | 35mm film |
| Years Produced | Konica Genba Kantoku 28WB (1988); Konica Genba Kantoku 28 (1990); Konica New Genba Kantoku (1992) |
| Lens | Fixed wide-angle 28mm lens (Genba Kantoku 28WB); 28mm f/3.5 lens (Genba Kantoku 28HG) |
| Lens Design | 8 Elements, 7 Groups (Genba Kantoku 28HG) |
| Weight | 400g (Genba Kantoku 28HG) |
| Metering | CdS metering sensor, range 5.5 to 16.5 EV (ISO 100) |
| Flash | Standard flash (Genba Kantoku 28WB) |
| Voice Memo | Built-in voice memo function (Genba Kantoku 28WB and 1992 New Genba Kantoku) |
| Power | 2CR5 battery (New Genba Kantoku and Genba Kantoku HG28); CR2025 battery (date versions) |
Design
The series was built to take abuse. It has a heavy-duty weather seal, and its construction is described as extremely tough, weather-resistant, waterproof, and shockproof. The Genba Kantoku 28WB adds a textured rubber covering for grip and protection.
Context
Japanese manufacturers were expanding into specialized consumer and professional tool markets when the Genba Kantoku series appeared. It was a purpose-built camera for workers in demanding environments. It was marketed not as a photographic enthusiast's tool but as a durable, functional device for site documentation. The built-in voice memo system let users record notes alongside images. The original Genba Kantoku was replaced in 1993 by the New Genba Kantoku, which has a 35mm lens and keeps the same rugged form factor.
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