Konica Koniflex (1950s)
The Koniflex was Konica's only twin-lens reflex camera. It was a 6×6 medium format TLR built in the 1950s, and it came in two versions - the Koniflex I and the later Koniflex II, introduced in 1955 (with 1952 sometimes cited as the original design date). The II was a refinement of the first model with minor improvements.
The Koniflex II paired a sharp Hexanon 85mm f/3.5 taking lens (5 elements in 3 groups) with a Konishiroku 85mm f/3 View Hexar viewing lens. It focused down to 1 meter and used 120 film for 6×6 cm negatives. The metal body was finished in black. The documentation conflicts on the shutter. One source cites a Seikosha-Rappid (1s - 1/500) and another a Copal leaf shutter with the same speed range. Konica's own documentation would settle it, but the record is split.
The Koniflex was expensive in its day. It was priced near the contemporary Rolleiflex 2.8D, at a time when TLRs like the Yashica LM sold for around $50. It did not sell particularly well in North America as a result. That scarcity has made it collectible today. One dealer describes it as "one of the rarest and most powerful Japanese TLRs, a classic with a sense of weight." A listing at Filem.sg showed S$635 for a checked, working example sourced from Japan. A Kamerastore price guide entry for the Koniflex II shows no average certified price data, which fits how rarely these appear on the market.
Konica used "Koni-" naming for its accessories. "Konihoods" were made in various sizes for different cameras, and "Konifilters" followed the same convention. An extremely rare accessory is the "Koni-up" close-up lens set. If a Koniflex doesn't come with its original hood, an aftermarket one will do the job.
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