Konica Pearl IV
A Japanese-domestic-market-only 6×4.5cm folding medium format camera with linked exposure controls and a 75mm f/3.5 Hexar lens
Overview
The Konica Pearl IV, originally released by Konishiroku, is a 6×4.5cm folding medium format camera that shoots 120 roll film. It was sold only in Japan. It's a rangefinder with a linked shutter speed and aperture system (LV system), which simplifies setting exposure. Only 4,000 to 5,000 units were built, so it's rare and sought after. The lens is a 75mm f/3.5 Hexar with a 30.5mm filter thread. The shutter button sits on the front door, which users call unconventional. Despite that quirk, the Pearl IV is praised for its solid build, its impressive viewfinder and its handling.
Specifications
| Format | 6×4.5cm (645) medium format, 120 roll film |
| Lens | 75mm f/3.5 Hexar |
| Filter thread | 30.5mm |
| Dimensions | 127 x 108 x 50 mm |
| Weight | 715g vs 709g |
| Exposure control | Speed and aperture linked (LV system) |
| Shutter button location | On the front door |
Design
The Konica Pearl IV is a folding rangefinder, built to pack its 75mm f/3.5 Hexar lens and 120 film transport into a compact body. The LV system links shutter speed and aperture, so there's less to work out when choosing exposure. The shutter button is mounted on the front door. That placement affects handling, but it's part of the camera's original design.
Context
The Konica Pearl IV was a short-lived model, sold only in the Japanese domestic market and produced in limited numbers - between 4,000 and 5,000 units. It competed in a niche market alongside models like the Ensign Autorange 820 and the Takane Mine Six. One review title calls it "The Last, Best 645 Folder,"
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