Konica IIIA (1958–1961)

Name: Konica IIIA
Brand: Konica

A 35mm rangefinder camera with fixed Hexanon lens, produced from 1958 to 1961, available with either 48mm f/2 or 50mm f/1.8 optics.

Overview

The Konica IIIA is a 35mm rangefinder camera introduced in April 1958 by Konica (formerly Konishiroku). It has a fixed Hexanon lens and was produced until 1961. There were two lens configurations. Early models came with a coated 48mm f/2 Hexanon. The export model, particularly for the U.S. market, had a 50mm f/1.8 Hexanon in a larger Seikosha MXL shutter. The IIIA was built well, had good optics, and was positioned as a premium compact rangefinder. It has three finder windows on the front, and its viewfinder is noted as one of the brightest and clearest among non-interchangeable-lens 35mm rangefinders of its era.

Specifications

Type	rangefinder camera
Film Format	35mm
Years Produced	1958–1961
Lens	Hexanon 48mm f/2 (standard model) or 50mm f/1.8 (export model)
Shutter	Seikosha MXL
Shutter Speeds	slightly different: 1/500, 1/250, 1/125, 1/60, 1/30 second
Filter Size	35.5mm (for 48mm f/2), 43mm (for 50mm f/1.8)
Dimensions	133×81×65mm or 133×83×69mm
Weight	730g or 800g (body with lens)
Original Price	$129.50 (1958 USD)

Design

The Konica IIIA is a fixed-lens design with three finder windows on the front panel. The shutter release is turned counter-clockwise for operation. The export version with the 50mm f/1.8 lens uses the larger Seikosha MXL shutter assembly. The construction emphasizes precision and durability, and the camera has a reputation for high build quality.

Context

The Konica IIIA was part of the Konica III series. It followed the Konica III (1956) and was contemporaneous with the Konica IIIM. It was marketed as a high-end model, and its original price of $129.50 was considered expensive for the time. The IIIA was distinguished from earlier models by improved optics and viewfinder clarity. Some regard it as one of the most advanced non-interchangeable-lens 35mm rangefinders ever made.

Market

The Konica IIIA has a cult following among collectors and film enthusiasts. Some users report shutter reliability issues, and slow speeds are a common concern. Even so, the camera is praised for its lens quality and exceptional viewfinder brightness. Units have sold on eBay for around $170-$200, depending on condition and lens configuration.