KONICA HEXAR RF

Name: Konica Hexar RF
Brand: Konica

The Konica Hexar RF is a 35mm rangefinder camera introduced in 1999, notable for combining Leica M-mount compatibility with advanced autofocus and auto-exposure systems—a rare fusion in the rangefinder category. Designed to appeal to professional and advanced amateur photographers seeking modern handling with rangefinder ergonomics, it stands as one of the few autofocus rangefinders ever produced with a traditional optical viewfinder and mechanical rangefinder coupling.

Overview

The Konica Hexar RF was launched in November 1999 as a premium rangefinder camera aimed at bridging the gap between classic rangefinder design and contemporary electronic automation. Developed in collaboration with Cosina and leveraging design input from engineers familiar with Leica M-series mechanics, the Hexar RF was positioned as a technically sophisticated alternative to the Leica M6 and M7. It was marketed to photographers who valued the compact size, quiet operation, and precise focusing of rangefinders but desired modern features such as aperture-priority autoexposure, TTL metering, and a built-in film transport motor.

Mechanically, the Hexar RF shares strong lineage with the Cosina-built Leica M7, though Konica implemented several distinct enhancements. The camera features a bright 0.65x magnification viewfinder with automatic frame selection for 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 75mm, 90mm, and 135mm lenses via electrical contacts on compatible M-mount lenses. Unlike most rangefinders of its era, the Hexar RF incorporates a contrast-detection autofocus system for use with its dedicated 40mm f/1.9 lens—the only autofocus-capable M-mount lens ever produced. While autofocus is limited to that single lens, the camera retains manual focus capability with all other M-mount optics.

The Hexar RF was produced until 2003, when Konica exited the camera manufacturing business following its merger with Minolta. Production is estimated to have totaled approximately 10,000–12,000 units, making it a relatively rare model. It was sold both as a standalone body and as a kit with the Konica 40mm f/1.9 Hexanon lens. Despite its advanced feature set, the camera never achieved widespread adoption, partly due to its high price at launch (over $2,000 USD) and skepticism from traditional rangefinder users about integrating autofocus into a manual-focusing paradigm.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Type	Rangefinder
Film Format	35mm
Years Produced	1999–2003
Lens Mount	Leica M-mount
Shutter	Vertical-travel, electronically controlled metal focal-plane shutter; 1–1/4000 second, plus B and automatic flash sync (1/125s)
Metering	TTL full-aperture center-weighted metering with stop-down capability
Exposure Modes	Aperture-priority autoexposure, manual exposure, autoexposure lock, exposure compensation (±2 EV in 1/2 EV steps)
Viewfinder	Optical rangefinder with 0.65x magnification; automatic frame selection for 28/35, 50/75, 90/135mm focal lengths
Dimensions	140 × 78 × 45 mm; ~650 g (body only, with battery)

Key Features

Leica M-mount compatibility: Fully supports manual focus with all M-mount lenses, including third-party and vintage optics.
Autofocus capability: Unique contrast-detection autofocus system functional only with the Konica 40mm f/1.9 Hexanon AF lens.
Advanced exposure system: Aperture-priority and manual modes with TTL metering, exposure lock, and compensation.
Built-in motor drive: Automatic film advance and rewind at 2 fps; supports DX-coded ISO 25–5000.
Multi-frame viewfinder: Automatic frameline selection via electrical contacts on compatible lenses.

Historical Context

The Konica Hexar RF was released during a transitional period in the photography industry, as digital cameras began to encroach on the professional and enthusiast markets. Konica, historically known for its high-quality Hexanon lenses and the popular Hexar line of 35mm point-and-shoot cameras, sought to reestablish itself in the premium segment with a technologically advanced rangefinder. The Hexar RF was intended to challenge Leica’s dominance by offering similar build quality and handling with added automation.

Competitors at the time included the Leica M6 (mechanical), M7 (aperture-priority), and the Epson R-D1 (the first digital rangefinder, released in 2004). The Hexar RF’s autofocus system was a bold innovation, but it was met with mixed reception. Purists criticized the integration of autofocus into a rangefinder, viewing it as contrary to the philosophy of manual precision. Additionally, the limitation of autofocus to a single, expensive lens reduced its practical appeal. Despite excellent build quality—machined brass top plate, smooth film transport, and precise rangefinder patch—the camera failed to gain significant market traction.

Collectibility & Value

Today, the Konica Hexar RF is regarded as a cult classic and a sought-after collector’s item. Its rarity, coupled with its unique position as the only autofocus-capable Leica M-mount rangefinder, has driven prices upward. As of 2024, a fully functional Hexar RF typically sells for $1,800–$2,500 USD, with models accompanied by the 40mm f/1.9 AF lens commanding premiums of $3,000 or more. Condition is critical: the autofocus mechanism and shutter reliability are common concerns, and prolonged storage can lead to lubricant hardening or contact oxidation.

When purchasing a used Hexar RF, buyers should verify the functionality of the autofocus system (if the 40mm lens is included), test the shutter across all speeds, and confirm smooth film advance and rewind. The camera uses a single CR2 lithium battery to power the meter, motor, and autofocus systems. While battery life is reasonable, aging capacitors and degraded internal seals can be issues in older units. Servicing is possible but limited to specialized technicians familiar with M-mount electronics.

Similar Cameras

Leica M7 – Mechanically similar, aperture-priority M-series with film automation.
Epson R-D1 – Digital M-mount rangefinder with mechanical controls.
Cosina Voigtländer Bessa R2/R3 – Manual focus M-mount rangefinders with bright finders.
Canon Canonet QL17 G-III – Affordable 35mm rangefinder with fixed lens (for comparison in Konica’s heritage).
FED 2/3/4 series – Soviet-era Leica-thread mount rangefinders (historical contrast).

Repair & Maintenance

The Konica Hexar RF uses a single CR2 3V lithium battery (DL/CR2) to power all electronic functions, including the light meter, autofocus, motor drive, and frame counter. Battery life typically lasts 20–30 rolls under normal use. Common issues include shutter malfunctions at high speeds (often due to dried lubricants), erratic autofocus behavior (caused by aging sensors or lens contacts), and film transport jams. The camera’s electronic complexity makes it more difficult to repair than mechanical M-mount bodies. Only a few specialized repair shops—such as Leica Authorized Service Centers or technicians with experience in M-mount electronics—are equipped to service the Hexar RF properly. Regular use and periodic cleaning of electrical contacts are recommended to maintain reliability.