View Full Version : Konica 35/2 UC-Hexanon LTM
bobomoon
03-02-2007, 14:03
I'm not gonna buy it but is this a reasonable price? Link (http://cgi.ebay.com/Konica-UC-HEXANON-35mm-f-2-Black-Brand-new_W0QQitemZ150097434132QQihZ005QQcategoryZ30039Q QrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
David Murphy
03-02-2007, 16:08
How do you know this is for Leica thread mount?
The ad says "Fit to 35mm Rangefinder camera (L mount)".
I seem to recall this is the same lens design as the M-Hexanon 35mm f2.0 I own, but far smaller in size. Basically my dream lens, but unjustifiable given I already own the M-Hexanon. If I didn't, I personally would have paid that price.
planetjoe
03-02-2007, 16:19
I saw that auction, too, while looking over some AR-mount stuff. It's the LTM version, near as I can tell. Stephen talks about it briefly on this (http://cameraquest.com/mlenses.htm) page, and Dante Stella describes (http://www.dantestella.com/technical/hex352.html) it, too.
As for the price...well, it's probably pretty accurate. Dante says the original price was 114k yen, and that currently works out to about $1k. And the lens was made in a limited run of 1000.
Now, that's GAS.
Cheers,
--joe.
http://www.photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg?msg_id=006tmt&tag=
dreamsandart
03-02-2007, 19:24
I sold one for about this price. Limited to 1000 units so I don't see the price going down. Yes, its a LTM lens and with an adapter can mount without problems to the M-series. Not too many black paint Leica lenses out there and this is a gorgeous looking lens on any camera. If you have a BP M-series or LTM it may be ideal.
Great Lens! Very compact and very well made. Optically its 'beautiful', very sharp and flare resistant. If you are looking for a high quality compact 35 for your M you couldn't do better.
I think it came into being because Konica just wanted to show what they could do.
In Japan they never needed to do that. Konica lenses were used by the Japanese Ministry of Industry as the reference benchmark by which the quality of all other manufacturers' lenses were judged. Some companies have an obsession with quality and Konica was one of them.
planetjoe
03-02-2007, 20:22
Hey, Peter - thanks for the pnet reference; I hadn't seen that. I'll add it to my bookmarks and my ever-growing bin of random photo information.
Now, if I could only afford that lens. Or learn to shoot 35mm correctly, for that matter...
Cheers,
--joe.
The serial number confirms the limited production: 0344/1000. Oiy.
This lens would fit on all of my RF bodies. Why did I swear off equipment purchases in 2007?
Bummer.
Just bought it. I've been looking for the 35 Hexanon M for a while, but this will do just fine.
amateriat
03-02-2007, 23:32
Dante's overview of this lens is here (http://dantestella.com/technical/hex352.html).
(Gid: that lens will do just fine, indeed. Enjoy it lots!)
- Barrett
amateriat
03-02-2007, 23:38
In Japan they never needed to do that. Konica lenses were used by the Japanese Ministry of Industry as the reference benchmark by which the quality of all other manufacturers' lenses were judged. Some companies have an obsession with quality and Konica was one of them.
I'd also offer that Konica was on something of a creative/engineering hot streak from about 1992 until their fateful "merger" with Minolta a few years back. Bringing out the "oddball" Hexar autofocus, making awfully-interesting LTM lenses, then bringing out the Hexar RF and a handful of great lenses to support it. It was practially a Golden Age for them.
- Barrett
Oh that link implies it's NOT the same as the M-Hexanon. Then again, who really knows. I wonder if there's a way to find out definitively.
Good thing Gid bought it. I have this urge to chase the 35UC, M-Hex 60mm 1.2, M-Hex 50mm 1.2 and M-Hex 21-35. Right now I'm an enthusiastic Konica user with all Konica lenses, but that would turn me into a (poor) Konica collector with an angry partner.
Dante's overview of this lens is here (http://dantestella.com/technical/hex352.html).
(Gid: that lens will do just fine, indeed. Enjoy it lots!)
- Barrett
Barrett,
I'm looking forward to it.
Oh that link implies it's NOT the same as the M-Hexanon. Then again, who really knows. I wonder if there's a way to find out definitively.
Good thing Gid bought it. I have this urge to chase the 35UC, M-Hex 60mm 1.2, M-Hex 50mm 1.2 and M-Hex 21-35. Right now I'm an enthusiastic Konica user with all Konica lenses, but that would turn me into a (poor) Konica collector with an angry partner.
They have a 60 1.2 in LTM mount. Interesting FL - would make a 90 1.2 on the R-D1. Lots of £ though (maybe not compared to a Noctilux)
http://stores.ebay.co.uk/MATSUIYASTORE_Lenses-Accessory_Konica-Minolta_W0QQcolZ4QQdirZQ2d1QQfsubZ7349798QQftidZ2Q QtZkm
They just relisted the lens, presumably because they have more!
Interesting. Only this time you can't read the serial number on the lens.
Huck Finn
03-05-2007, 06:30
The ad says "Fit to 35mm Rangefinder camera (L mount)".
I seem to recall this is the same lens design as the M-Hexanon 35mm f2.0 I own, but far smaller in size. Basically my dream lens, but unjustifiable given I already own the M-Hexanon. If I didn't, I personally would have paid that price.
The UC-Hexanon 35/2 is a classic double-Gauss design, which is why it performs so similarly to the pre-ASPH Leica 35/2. In addition to the fact that it is a rare limited-edition lens, it is more expensive because it is made of brass instead of aluminum. The M-hexanon 35/2 is a completely different design:
http://www3.xitek.com/bingqiku/konica/rangefinder/m-konica-lens.htm
galavanter
03-11-2007, 03:49
At least the third one for today is available now:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Konica-UC-HEXANON-35mm-f-2-Black-Brand-new_W0QQitemZ150100694749QQcategoryZ30039QQtcZphot oQQcmdZViewItem
I bought the second one and I am elated. I was searching for 28 Hexanons this morning and I saw the first one had ended with "buy it now". I emailed Noriaki and he responded by alerting me to his second listing. I had a tracking number in half an hour. I had not seen this thread until now.
Those are sailboats melting into the sky behind the girl and cellphone picture in Dante's review! To me a brand new V4 Summicron only better. My dream lens too.
Gid have you received yours?
Jim
At least the third one for today is available now:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Konica-UC-HEXANON-35mm-f-2-Black-Brand-new_W0QQitemZ150100694749QQcategoryZ30039QQtcZphot oQQcmdZViewItem
I bought the second one and I am elated. I was searching for 28 Hexanons this morning and I saw the first one had ended with "buy it now". I emailed Noriaki and he responded by alerting me to his second listing. I had a tracking number in half an hour. I had not seen this thread until now.
Those are sailboats melting into the sky behind the girl and cellphone picture in Dante's review! To me a brand new V4 Summicron only better. My dream lens too.
Gid have you received yours?
Jim
Jim,
Apologies for missing the end of this thread.
Mine turned up on the Wednesday morning following my purchase - effectively 3 working days from Japan to the UK, which I think is amazing. The whole experience with the seller was excellent - great communication - and I recommend him to anyone.
The lens is superb in terms of fit and finish (gorgeous black lacquer) and reminds me very much of my (now gone) 35 F2 summicron IV in terms of handling. I've been trying it out on my new M8 (both arrived same day) and I am very pleased with the results. I've attached a couple of examples.
First at F2, second at F8 and third at F4 all with M8 and B+W 486 filter
galavanter
03-15-2007, 04:40
Jim,
Apologies for missing the end of this thread.
Mine turned up on the Wednesday morning following my purchase - effectively 3 working days from Japan to the UK, which I think is amazing. The whole experience with the seller was excellent - great communication - and I recommend him to anyone.
The lens is superb in terms of fit and finish (gorgeous black lacquer) and reminds me very much of my (now gone) 35 F2 summicron IV in terms of handling. I've been trying it out on my new M8 (both arrived same day) and I am very pleased with the results. I've attached a couple of examples.
First at F2, second at F8 and third at F4 all with M8 and B+W 486 filter
I figured you were busy taking photographs. Mine arrived in the US in 3 days as well. Unfortunately I'm on the road so I don't have it yet. I had the same excellent experience dealing with Noriaki. I wanted to ask him where he is getting these things! Thanks for the examples. I can't wait to try mine out on the R-D1.
Jim
Gabriel M.A.
03-15-2007, 05:05
I was waiting to get enough money by the end of the auction. Now I find out why it's gone. Somebody spilled the beans!! :bang:
galavanter
03-15-2007, 13:09
I was waiting to get enough money by the end of the auction. Now I find out why it's gone. Somebody spilled the beans!! :bang:
Oh that one sold days ago! There was at least one or two more after that. You missed those too. I think "newbies" got them.
mfunnell
03-15-2007, 15:44
There's another one listed there right now. He must have quite the source of supply, given this is a "rare lens with only 1,000 made".
...Mike
Someday I will regret passing these up. I picture one semi-permanently attached to one of my Canon bodies. Oh well. I already have a couple of nice 35mm lenses. Isn't that enough?
espressogeek
03-15-2007, 16:50
I just picked up one does that make me a bad person? I figure how many times do I get to own 1 of 1000 or anything in this life? I can't wait to compare it to my zeiss 35/2 ZM.
mfunnell
03-15-2007, 17:11
I've just received mine. My comparison is going to be with the M-Hexanon 35/2 from the same stable.
...Mike
P.S. A quick shot of the new lens...
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/176/422632844_9c6b88e337_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mfunnell/422632844/)
Gabriel M.A.
03-15-2007, 17:18
I've just received mine. My comparison is going to be with the M-Hexanon 35/2 from the same stable.
...Mike
Yeah, I find it curious.
If you ever decide to let go of the M-Hexanon, let me know! :D
galavanter
03-17-2007, 22:23
#901 here. It is a solid little lens. I bought this because I had a bad experience buying a used V3 Summicron. It had oil on the blades and a sticky aperture and I had to send it off to DAG. Buying 35 year old lenses has its risks.
I began reading about the Hexanon lenses and decided to give them a try. Then I happened upon this UC, a lens I didn't even now existed. It is nice to have a brand new (V4) lens with solid click stops (doesn't move a hair past f2 or f16 like my 1972 Summicron). And what does a new Leica cost, a couple grand? Asph? Not for me thanks.
One thing I noticed that Dante didn't take note of is the travel of the focus tab from closeup to infinity. It's just about exactly 90 degrees, kinda equidistantly
divided between each side of the bottom (6 o'clock) of the lens.
I like this as opposed to the V3 Summicron I have, which has about 135 degrees travel, much too far up and over as you focus closer. I have to change the position of my finger. I feel like I could hurt myself, maybe flip upside down:) I am still learning how to use these tabs but I prefer the shorter travel of the Hexanon, even though it doesn't focus quite as close.
Looks good (but larger than life) on the Hexar Mike. I have been tempted by that camera. Espressogeek I would like to see your comparison shots when you can.
Jim
Oh yeah here's yet another one (St. Paddy's edition) with your name on it Gabriel:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Konica-UC-HEXANON-35mm-f-2-Black-Brand-new_W0QQitemZ150103038743QQcategoryZ30039QQtcZphot oQQcmdZViewItem
I find it funny that you took the time to publicly chastise me for what you viewed (rather childishly) as my ruining your opportunity to purchase this lens, and yet you haven't purchased one of the many listings which have followed.
I'm curious to see how it performs wide open and stopped down a just couple of stops with the same subject. The optical layout is very similar to the 35/1.8 Nikkor-W for their RF cameras. I briefly tried that Nikkor last year which came with the 2005 SP but found wide open it was a bit softer than the V4 'cron due to a sort of veiling softness from what I assume was inherent aberration. Other users of that lens have posted much better results with that lens so maybe mine was simply sub-par. I saw Dante's article on the UC Hexanon and it has a similar veiling quality wide open that disapears when stopped down.
espressogeek
03-21-2007, 17:30
I have not done any scientific testing but I have a few shots to post. First off, wide open and then 2.8 .
http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/8596/konicatestf2as3.jpg
http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/209/konicacf28of4.jpg
Then another one at 2.8 this time with some lens flare.
http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/7817/konicaf282xd6.jpg
Next Konica at F2 focused on left glasses lens.
Full Image
http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/188/konicaf2fulluj3.jpg
and crop
http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/3277/konicaf2croptv7.jpg
Next Zeiss 35/2 ZM at F2 focused same.
Full image
http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/5803/zeissf2fullcz1.jpg
and crop
http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/7448/zeissf2crophm0.jpg
The UC is about half the size of the ZM . It weighs a LOT less as well and the hood is nicer. The Zeiss, at least at full aperture, zeems to be sharper and have a bit more contrast. Here is another one of the zeiss at f2 just to show how amazing it is.
Full
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/2126/zeiss2f2fullex3.jpg
and crop
http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/2233/zeiss2f2cropaj0.jpg
The zeiss is an amazing lens. The little UC is too but it is a big softer and more gentle. I wouldnt say its fuzzy and I could be completely wrong. Its definitly an interesting look.
amateriat
03-21-2007, 17:38
Yeah, I find it curious.
If you ever decide to let go of the M-Hexanon, let me know! :D Hey, hey, no crowding, m'man! ;)
Actually, I'm sort-of holding out for a 17-35mm M-Hex "duallie", and I'm happy as a pup with my 28. But you know about temptation...
- Barrett (potentially ruining my "gearhead-ascetic" rep on RFf)
amateriat
03-21-2007, 17:41
exspressogeek: Allowing for the limitations of Web images, it all looks pretty good to me from here.
- Barrett
espressogeek
03-21-2007, 18:01
Sorry the pictures are not more artistic but I just got it. You know how it is. I will work it out a bit more in its preferred enviornment.
Thanks for the shots. The comparison crops wide with the ZI are interesting as the ZI has a tiny bit more snap to the sharpness/contrast but that doesn't surprise me based on the design differences. The f/2 and f/2.8 UC comparisons were also interesting in that at f/2 sharpness isn't much less than f/2.8. Veiling softness at f/2 does not seem present like my sample of the 35/1.8 W-Nikkor C. I'm curious to see how sharp the lens really gets, say f/4 or f/5.6 where it should be at it's peak.
espressogeek
03-21-2007, 18:12
I will take it out tomorrow and do one of my other favorite test shots overlooking nashville. I will shoot it one stop apart up to say f11 or so and post the results.
It is definitly sharp enough for anything I want to do with it. What impresses me is the size and build. What impresses me about the zeiss is that extra snap and it still having the smooth bokeh. I would not expect those two traits to go hand in hand.
espressogeek: thank you very much for the comparison. UC results do indeed look like Summicron results.
Because of your first photo however (f2 with forest back ground), I am still undecided. The double lines
in the OOF trees bother me. Do you know how it behaves wide open with point light sources in the background ?
Thanks (also to the model),
Roland.
mfunnell
03-22-2007, 12:32
If you ever decide to let go of the M-Hexanon, let me know! :DAccording to the Bureau of Meteorology (http://www.bom.gov.au/weather/nsw/), Hell is unlikely to freeze over any time soon :D
...Mike
espressogeek: thank you very much for the comparison. UC results do indeed look like Summicron results.
Because of your first photo however (f2 with forest back ground), I am still undecided. The double lines
in the OOF trees bother me. Do you know how it behaves wide open with point light sources in the background ?
Thanks (also to the model),
Roland.
I posted a B&W version of this in another thread. M8, F2, ISO 160, 1/90. Lightroom and no PP.
espressogeek
03-23-2007, 15:55
I was surprised by the double lines too. I will try to get some oof point light sources. I wonder when you stop down if the double lines clear up a bit? Here is another one or two from today. I meant to get more but my RD-1 went poop. I hope its just the battery.
These were at F4.
Full
http://img488.imageshack.us/img488/3471/fullpp5.jpg
Crop
http://img469.imageshack.us/img469/7326/cropmi4.jpg
I added the vignetting on this one. There was zero vignetting in the original frame.
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/5397/eps1142800ha8.jpg
It definitly gets very sharp very quick. I like it. I'm still not sure if I like it better than the zeiss. I need to explore the OOF rendering a bit more with some comparisons.
Espressogeek, I really like that last shot. OOF appears perfect giving the sharp buds a nice 'pop'. Looking forward to more comparisons to the ZI at apertures like f/4. I doubt by f/5.6 any difference can be seen to the ZI.
Platinum RF
03-26-2007, 05:49
More than 1000 copies were made, I ahve see number >1000/1000. good little lens
espressogeek
03-28-2007, 17:02
Here are some shots at close to infinity if not. The first full frame and 100 percent crop are f2. The second are f4 and the last pair are f8.
http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/1397/eps1191of1.jpg
http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/8155/eps1191cropaz0.jpg
http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/7485/eps1192bw2.jpg
http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/3058/eps1192cropjy8.jpg
http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/1928/eps1193du8.jpg
http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/2959/eps1193croptu0.jpg
And a bokeh shot around f2.8 or something. I think the bokeh cleans up nicely on this lens and is a real winner when stopped down some. This is not uncommon for many great lenses with the red dot too!
http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/1898/bokehno2.jpg
Great test shots. I couldn't resist the chance and bought one from another RFF member. I found this information interesting on the Hexar AF's 35/2 Hexanon here: http://wiki.silvergrain.org/wiki/index.php?title=Konica_Hexar#Hexanon_35mm_f.2F2.0. The lens is basically the same as the UC version except the UC version has a slightly improved coating (Ultra-Coat?). The lens' unique bokeh is apparently related to undercorrection of spherical aberration (SA) which is supposed to improve contrast wide open. According to Konica's graph, SA is greatest at f/2.86 (?). Oddly, if one can believe their MTF graphs, performance is between V4 Summicron and the Summicron ASPH at f/2 and better than the ASPH at f/5.6. I'll post my test results when I get my version in a few days.
espressogeek
03-28-2007, 18:25
These are from the UC. The bokeh is odd below f2.8 or so. F4 and above it looks perfect IMHO. Wide open if you are not close you loose to much resolution but once at f2.8 its great and f4 stellar. I like it because of its compact size and lovely bokeh stopped down. If I was shooting f2 all the time i might be tempted to shoot the zeiss for resolutions sake.
mfunnell
03-28-2007, 18:39
I've been enjoying mine, and just getting used to it. I haven't done side-by-side tests, but so far my impressionistic view of the M-Hexanon 35 versus the UC-Hexanon is that the M is probably a little sharper wide-open and seems to stamp the OOF areas of the image with more authority, while the UC is just a tad softer at f2-2.8 and has OOF areas that seem more "gauzy" than the M and sometimes less harsh - but also less well defined. I'm not getting rid of either, just trying to get a feel for which would be better for which shots.
One that I've liked from the UC-Hexanon:
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/148/436104674_92adaa9169_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mfunnell/436104674/)
Taken at around f2.8ish (part of my uncertainty is that with the CV LTM-M adapter the aperture ring is slightly off the centre-line of the mounted lens, which makes it easy to be out by half or even a whole stop when I set it with my eye to the viewfinder).
...Mike
espressogeek
03-28-2007, 19:02
That is a really nice shot! I love the tones and composition. I like that subtle " gauzy " OOF look. It reminds me of the sonnar , canon 50/1.5 and other classic lenses.
This picture won't make anyone rush out and buy the 35mm UC-Hexanon lens. For me, this is a departure into the abstract. Guess focus. On a table. Guess composition. Through a window. Raining. Thanks for looking.
M5 | 35mm/F2.0 UC-Hexanon | 1:2.0, 0.9 meters | Agfa 400
http://gallery.leica-users.org/d/89724-2/Wet+Window-000011.jpg
Wayne, you must have the one defective lens out of a 1000, lots of comatic aberration in the raindrops hanging off the chair! Seriously though, it's a great shot and the lens is a spectacular performer as anyone can see. Great bokeh, color and contast wide open with minimal fall off despite guess focus no less! These are the kind of grab shots that make rangefinders so endearing to me.
Very nice Wayne! From all of the results I've seen this is quite a lens. They are still selling new ones on eBay if anyone wants to pick one up. :)
This picture won't make anyone rush out and buy the 35mm UC-Hexanon lens. For me, this is a departure into the abstract. Guess focus. On a table. Guess composition. Through a window. Raining. Thanks for looking.
M5 | 35mm/F2.0 UC-Hexanon | 1:2.0, 0.9 meters | Agfa 400
http://gallery.leica-users.org/d/89724-2/Wet+Window-000011.jpg
I love this shot.
Thank y'all so much. I'll have to take more "guess" pictures! Hey, I've done worse with the viewfinder in the proper place! :cool:
I'm curious about the colored lights in the upper left corner, they really add a special touch to the shot. Where they simply window reflections from the indoor lighting behind you and could they be visualized in the viewfinder?
I'm curious about the colored lights in the upper left corner, they really add a special touch to the shot. Where they simply window reflections from the indoor lighting behind you and could they be visualized in the viewfinder?
Correct. Those are reflections. From where I was sitting, behind and right of the camera, all I saw was a nearly monochrome scene beyond the rain splattered window. The reflections were quite unexpected. By the way, I really don't know what I might have seen through the viewfinder. I placed the camera on a low table, set min. focus, aligned the camera square to the glass & pushed the shutter button. A real "shot in the dark."
This is the wall behind and left of the camera and what the reflections are.
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=46515&d=1182299905
NickTrop
06-19-2007, 18:57
This is one of the few times I've seen a clear improvement in sample pictures posted from a 35mm lens on the web. Nice shots.
f = 8.0 | NHG II
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=48891&d=1188227896
I just bought one of the UC-hexanons. I learned about the availability of the lens from lurking on this forum. I haven't posted much on Rangefinderforum but I do read the helpful info that others post. In this case, the information about the Hexanon was very useful. Thanks, Tom
Post some pics when you get it Tom! And welcome to RFF! :)
alan davus
08-28-2007, 23:28
Tom, you've joined a small, exclusive but enthusiastic club by purchasing the Hex 35 UC. Enjoy it.
mfunnell
08-29-2007, 04:05
Tom, you've joined a small, exclusive but enthusiastic club by purchasing the Hex 35 UC. Enjoy it.All of which is probably true. I think I spent more for this lens (from matsuiyastore (http://myworld.ebay.com.au/matsuiyastore) who I think are wonderful) than I have on any other single piece of RF equipment (including my 75 'lux - OK, good deal). I may have been drinking at the time, but there's no buyer's remorse here. To my eye, what the UC Hex 35 is good at, it is really good at, and is just stunning. It's not my general-purpose 35 - but at f2 in the right circumstances I just plain love it.
...Mike
alan davus
08-29-2007, 20:42
Mike, I bought my Hex 35 UC from Matsuiyastore under similar circumstances. About 11.30pm, late at night after a few too many glasses of good South Australian red. But no regrets when I woke up sober the next day.
Matsuiyastore are still selling these on eBay.
I wonder if/when they will run out?
They will presumably run out at some point because there was limited production (supposedly). I don't think it will be a Cosina-type situation where a "limited production" run ended up being a bit more unlimited than was the understanding of the first buyers. Konica have after all gone out of the camera business. ;)
My UC Hexanon arrived just an hour ago from Japan, in just three days. I have never been so impressed with everything, from packing to quality of the lens and accessories, as with this lens. The lens is tiny and beautifully finished. There is a pouch for the lens and a separate pouch for the hood.
I have number 745/1000.
One point that I haven't seen anyone mention - The lens hood screws on very smoothly. When the hood is unscrewed, the rotation seems to hit a bump after about one turn. A bit more force and the hood unscrews smoothly the rest of the way. I repeated putting the hood on a dozen times and it seems clear that the bump is a design feature so that the hood doesn't fall off. I haven't looked at the lens or hood under magnification, but I can't tell how this "feature" of the hood works. I'm amazed!
I'll be taking the Hexanon out this weekend - Hopefully I'll have some photos to show the forum in a week or so. For now, I'm as excited as I ever have been over a lens or camera purchase.
I tried the Hexanon hood on a 43mm B+W filter. I feel the same bump when I unscrew the hood from the filter. However, there is no bump when I unscrew the filter from the lens. Conclusion: The bump is a property of the Hexanon hood.
If I examine the hood threads carefully, it seems that there is only a little more than one turn of threads.
The bump when unscrewing the hood feels different than just a tight fit or a poor threading job would. The bump is very distinct, more like the bump when going into close focusing on a screw mount Nikkor 50mm f/1.4.
I tried the Hexanon hood on a 43mm B+W filter. I feel the same bump when I unscrew the hood from the filter. However, there is no bump when I unscrew the filter from the lens. Conclusion: The bump is a property of the Hexanon hood.
If I examine the hood threads carefully, it seems that there is only a little more than one turn of threads.
The bump when unscrewing the hood feels different than just a tight fit or a poor threading job would. The bump is very distinct, more like the bump when going into close focusing on a screw mount Nikkor 50mm f/1.4.
There is just over a quarter turn free movement in the hood when its screwed on, so that you can adjust the cut out in the VF - you're not getting confused by this by any chance?
Thanks Gid .. I should have figured out why the hood rotates like it does. You are correct; there is a bit more than a quarter turn of movement before the bump when turning the hood so as to remove it.
And, now I understand how this mechanism works. I didn't spot it before - The thread on the hood rotates a little more than a quarter turn inside the rest of the hood.
The mystery is cleared up. Thanks for helping to remove my confusion.
foto_fool
09-01-2007, 12:04
I just received # 901/1000 (thanks Jim!) and plunked it on the R-D1 for a test drive.
http://images29.fotki.com/v1005/photos/1/1126243/4871630/UC_Hex35_1-vi.jpg
@ f5.6
http://images28.fotki.com/v999/photos/1/1126243/4871630/UC_Hex35_2-vi.jpg
@ f4
http://images28.fotki.com/v997/photos/1/1126243/4871630/UC_Hex35_3-vi.jpg
@ f2 (obligatory boke shot - nice surprise!)
http://images27.fotki.com/v983/photos/1/1126243/4871630/UC_Hex35_4-vi.jpg
@ f2 (Sean & Nick at work in Harvest Moon kitchen).
This really is an extraordinary lens. Really looking forward to shooting some film with it.
- John
Now I feel even better about buying Konica RF cameras, such as the III and the IIIM. They sport very sharp lenses.
Based on the above, "I have far to go before I am worthy, Master."
alan davus
09-01-2007, 21:48
Proud owner of 0686 here. Yes the vented hood is large but I love it and leave it on permanently. A 62mm snap on cap fits the hood albeit a little loosely but does the job. An absolute gem of a lens. My 3 other Hex's are a little jealous as the 35 gets most of the outings at the moment.
peter_n: I hadn't thought of the Voigtlander Pancake I hood for the Konica. Great idea.
But, what do you do for a cap? I assume that one of the Voigtlander push-on caps fits, but I'm not sure which one. Or can you get a plastic snap-cap to fit?
mfunnell
09-03-2007, 07:57
I use a generic Hoya vented lens hood and a generic 43mm snap-on cap (on the lens, not over the hood) with mine. But that's mostly because I don't want to scratch up the lacquer-on-metal originals through general usage. Doesn't stop me from using the lens rather generally, though.
...Mike
BigSteveG
09-03-2007, 10:33
so much interest in this lens is making me crazy for one. Already have the 90mm (it's pretty sweet,) and want a 50mm.
They're still being sold on eBay...
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=49261&stc=1&d=1188846439
Just for the record, the lens above is 1 3/32" (+ or -) from camera flange face to front of filter ring. The Canon chrome 35/2.8, 34mm filter size, is 15/16" long.
existrandom
09-11-2007, 17:11
thanks(!) to previous comments from RFF member; i got one from same japanese store at fleabay. their service, like others have commented, is excellent in every aspect; arrives in just a few days to Hong Kong with secure package and prompt emails...
i sold 40 summicron-c and Canon35/1.8 to help funding the rather expensive purchase, now i deem it worthwhile, at least i feel i am not loosing anything, and the lens is really a gem for a big boy's toy :-)
i bought it to a taiwan trip (http://fotologue.jp/existrandom#/4408321/4656138) and it works flawlessly on my M4 with a Cosina/Voigtlander adaptor; it stays on there 90% of the time
i too find the original hood biggish for my liking, although the cut-out is a geneis design... i am ordering a "43mm vented & tilted hood" from heavystarr, will report how it works. the seller says other customers reported that it works ok on 35mm lens, and the widest diameter of the hood is about 55mm, FYI
2tcreative
09-25-2007, 11:40
Tom, you've joined a small, exclusive but enthusiastic club by purchasing the Hex 35 UC. Enjoy it.
Just got in on this thread. How does this lens differ, if other than the mount, from the M-Hexanon 35/2? I have the M-Hexanon 50/2 and love it. Been looking for the m version of the 35/2 and haven't found it. Was about to buy the Zeiss ZM Biogon 35/2.
What kind of 'signature' does this lens have? Contrasty, good tonal range, etc.? Comparable lens?
BigSteveG
09-25-2007, 11:44
Just got in on this thread. How does this lens differ, if other than the mount, from the M-Hexanon 35/2? I have the M-Hexanon 50/2 and love it. Been looking for the m version of the 35/2 and haven't found it. Was about to buy the Zeiss ZM Biogon 35/2.
What kind of 'signature' does this lens have? Contrasty, good tonal range, etc.? Comparable lens?
on Ebay. Excellent service. You can get a brand new NOS unti fo about $870.00 The len is tiny, very well made and makes wonderful images.
on Ebay. Excellent service. You can get a brand new NOS unti fo about $870.00 The len is tiny, very well made and makes wonderful images.
Using the lens is perhaps it's best attribute. Everything about the lens works so well. For me, anyway. The focus tab is perfect. The aperture ring is a thing of joy. The fact that it produces good photographs is a bonus. OK, I'm guessing it makes good images. I haven't used mine enough yet. Plus, I can make bad pictures with the best equipment! :eek:
:cool:
How is flare behaviour with backlite of the UC-Hexanon? I know most, if not all double-Gauss-type wideangle lenses have this issue. This is not to say all other lenses are free of it, but at least the Summicron-Asph. 35/2 is. My Canon RF 35/2 shows noticeable flare with motives against a bright sky, and I noticed something similar for some pictures of the 4th gen. Summicron 35/2, probably to a lesser extend thanks to modern coating. I would like to know how the UC-Hexanon acts here. I consider to buy one of them. From lens diagram the UC-Hexanon looks more like Nikon RF 35/1.8 than Summicron-M 35/2 4th gen.
-Frank-
historicist
09-26-2007, 14:47
I've also got one of these lenses, also from matsuyastore. They shipped very quickly, I didn't get charged by customs as the value of the lens was understated, and I would highly recommend them. Incidentally, shortly afterwards I travelled to Japan and the lens was being sold second hand for slightly more than I paid for it new.
The lens is small (the main reason why I got it) and very well made. The hood is very nice though personally I don't use it as it adds to the size a lot. The metal push on lens cap is beautiful, but does not fit tightly. I would recommend buying a snap on cap, or a plastic push on, which are easily available in this size.
With regard to the optical performance, I would say it is very good. Wide open, it vignettes a lot, exactly as does the lens from the Hexar AF.
An example is:http://www.flickr.com/photos/historicist/482471307/
Personally I don't mind this. It is also not super sharp wide open, certainly not as sharp as my 50mm Summicron. However, it has a nice feel to the image, quite calm and a bit vintage looking, though I find myself preferring the Summicron over it.
The only thing that I really don't like about it is the minimum focussing distance of 0.9m. I would never have thought it before I purchased it, but there are a lot of times that I wish it was just a bit closer.
So, not a perfect lens, but very close, and certainly for the price, new for less than the price of a late pre-asph 35mm Summicron, well worth it.
There are more example of pictures taken with this lens here:http://www.flickr.com/photos/historicist/
(search for hexanon)
jsuominen
10-09-2007, 05:09
By the way, I just noticed a chrome Konica HEXANON 35mm f/2 for LTM from eBay (item 150169003361), which is not a UC-Hexanon. It seems to be same series as Konica HEXANON 50mm f/2.4 LTM.
I wonder if/when they will run out?
As of today, no more :).
More than 1000 copies were made, I ahve see number >1000/1000. good little lens
You sure it is not the M version?
As of today, no more :).
Another new 35/2.0 UC-Hexanon has appeared on ebay. The Rangefinder Forum members must be their best customers. Enjoy your "jewel like" new lens.
existrandom
10-16-2007, 20:07
peter_n
do you have a pic of your "35/2.5 Pancake I lens hood (not included with lens) DISCONTINUED" mounted on the UC Hexanon? i am thinking of getting one and would like to have a sense of it, can't find a picture of it on cameraquest's site
the generic heavystar one i got is killing me everytime i screw it on, with that metal screeching sound of poorly machined threads
thanks!
peter_n
do you have a pic of your "35/2.5 Pancake I lens hood (not included with lens) DISCONTINUED" mounted on the UC Hexanon? i am thinking of getting one and would like to have a sense of it, can't find a picture of it on cameraquest's site
the generic heavystar one i got is killing me everytime i screw it on, with that metal screeching sound of poorly machined threads
thanks!
I'm also curious which one is being referred to here. This is a list.
http://www.chiifcameras.com/content/view/39/56/
Ill trade you my 50 0.95 in M-Mount for your 50Lux Asph. Dont see it on your list;)
Strangely, the 50 Lux ASPH is my fav lens at the moment. And even more strangely, I was looking at the Canon 0.95 in M mount also :).
639/1000 for the UC Hexanon for me.
Another new 35/2.0 UC-Hexanon has appeared on ebay. The Rangefinder Forum members must be their best customers. Enjoy your "jewel like" new lens.
What UV/IR filter are you using? Any recommendation?
What UV/IR filter are you using? Any recommendation?
I don't own the M8. For what it's worth, I do have a B+W UV MRC filter on the lens. I had to borrow it from my Nikkor-S 50/1.4. I need another one.
...639/1000 for the UC Hexanon for me.
Mine is 3 digits away. Probably made at the same time.
enochRoot
10-19-2007, 15:31
funny you mention the aperture ring wayne. that is also one of my favorite points of this (in use). it is honestly the best aperture ring ever. if it only focussed closer...i would still own one :D
Using the lens is perhaps it's best attribute. Everything about the lens works so well. For me, anyway. The focus tab is perfect. The aperture ring is a thing of joy. The fact that it produces good photographs is a bonus. OK, I'm guessing it makes good images. I haven't used mine enough yet. Plus, I can make bad pictures with the best equipment! :eek:
:cool:
peter_n
do you have a pic of your "35/2.5 Pancake I lens hood (not included with lens) DISCONTINUED" mounted on the UC Hexanon? i am thinking of getting one and would like to have a sense of it, can't find a picture of it on cameraquest's site
the generic heavystar one i got is killing me everytime i screw it on, with that metal screeching sound of poorly machined threads
thanks!Here is a pic. of the hood mounted on the lens it was intended for:
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=3261&d=1106324855
As you can see it's pretty small.
existrandom
10-19-2007, 19:19
thanks peter
that pic you posted helps alot! while stock lasts ;-)
how do you like the flare protection it offer in your experience?
lee
I've only had a chance to take a few rolls of film with my UC Hexanon 35mm, f/2 (L-mount). I like the lens a lot and the rendition of out of focus areas is great. However, one negative point which caught my eye is barrel distortion. I don't remember the apertures but I happened to take a couple of photos of objects in front of brick walls . I think the bricks were in a straight line and what I'm seeing is barrel distortion but I don't have time to make a more scientific test right now. I'm not sure any of this matters as the other aspects of lens imaging and handling are superb. I just wonder if anyone else has noticed barrel distortion.
Platinum RF
11-01-2007, 10:28
one negative point which caught my eye is barrel distortion. I don't remember the apertures I just wonder if anyone else has noticed barrel distortion.
I have amny 35/2 lenses including 35/2 UC LTM, I compared to V4 Summicron, the UC barrel distrortion is easy to spot on the pictures, V4 is not visiable. When I have time I will post a few pictures.
For the first time since this thread began, Matsuiyastore does not have a new UC-Hexanon lens listed for sale. Do you suppose their stash is finally gone? :eek:
I must have looked in between listings or they were behind because it was Sunday. "They're back."
No. 746 here...
I was looking for a small lens for everyday use (my most used everyday camera is still the screwmount Bessa-R)
Other choices were the ZM Biogon (too large in size) and last-gen. non-asph. Summicron (still more expensive and probably not as good in flare resistance as the "newer design" Hexanon)
I will make some comparisons together with the Canon 35/2 and C/V 35/2.5 Pancake ser.I
http://www.taunusreiter.de/cameras/1106002m.jpg
Sonnar2: I have a similar combination. Close anyway. Canon VI-T, same lens, meter & Canon case. Very nice indeed.
You sure make the equipment look nice.
Sonnar2 - Your serial number 0746 sounded familiar so I looked at mine. I have UC-Hexanon 0745!
tbarker13
11-24-2007, 07:49
Well I blame everyone who posted here. I just bought one of these new from Matsuiyastore. I already have the 28 hexanon, which has a wonderful build.
I'm interested to see how the 35 UC compares to my 35 summicron v.4.
If there indeed are only 1,000 of these, it really makes me wonder how much longer that store can keep selling them.
We are the Enablers! :cool:
Enjoy!
We are all interested to know how your new lens compares to the v. 4 Summicron. Keep us posted.
Anyone in the UK interested in swapping a like-new Hexanon 35 UC with adapter for my like-new M-Hexanon 35? Just musing...
Gabriel M.A.
11-25-2007, 06:43
Stop it, all of you! Now, go to your room.
May I interest you in a 50mm f/1.2 Canon LTM for a 35 UC-Hexanon? You can keep the change :D
My recently acquired Hexanon UC 35/2 is 766/1000. I picked it up this morning. I like the size. I'm not fond of the big vented hood, but that's not going to stop me from shooting with it today.
:)
.
I've been shooting mine without the hood the past few weeks, with no ill effect.
Do you use a filter, Gid? If I don't use a filter, I've gotta have a hood.
.
Yes Ray. I have a UV/IR cut on it (just because of the M8) but would have UVs on in any case - I know opinions differ widely, but I've always found filters cheaper than lenses ;) . I haven't noticed any specific flare tendency with this lens without the hood, but sunny days are quite rare at the moment in the UK.
Do you use a filter, Gid? If I don't use a filter, I've gotta have a hood.Use a small hood from CV:
http://www.cameraquest.com/inventor.htm
Search on the page for this:
35/2.5 Pancake I lens hood DISCONTINUED, 43mm filter size $29
668/1000 just arrived here and joins my M-Hexanon 35mm and silver CV 35mm f/1.2.
I guess I like this focal length
668/1000 just arrived here and joins my M-Hexanon 35mm and silver CV 35mm f/1.2.
I guess I like this focal length
Post some comparison shots please!
I could do that I suppose. What do you want to see?
Bokeh between the M the UC.
Sounds simple enough. I'll have a go tonight. I want to know for my own benefit anyway.
OK after a day with the lens, I now believe it's the same lens as the Hexar AF. This is my first proper shot on film (APX400 @ ISO800 in DDX 1+4) and I'm pretty chuffed...
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2067/2221200560_535741fb51.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wintoid/2221200560/)
OK after a day with the lens, I now believe it's the same lens as the Hexar AF. This is my first proper shot on film (APX400 @ ISO800 in DDX 1+4) and I'm pretty chuffed...
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2067/2221200560_535741fb51.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wintoid/2221200560/)
Gorgeous shot of a gorgeous little girl!
You are very lucky!
Best regards,
Uwe
Chuffed is good? If so, I'm chuffed by the lens as well. Using it on either an LTM or M body is the most chuffed aspect of the lens. Did I get that right?
Enjoy!
OK after a day with the lens, I now believe it's the same lens as the Hexar AF. This is my first proper shot on film (APX400 @ ISO800 in DDX 1+4) and I'm pretty chuffed...
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2067/2221200560_535741fb51.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wintoid/2221200560/)
Simon,
Lovely shot - I'd be chuffed with that too. For our non-British friends - chuffed ~ well pleased, very happy.
I thought so. Totally chuffed by the wee 35mm UC-Hexanon on a Canon body or a Leica M body. Grinning. Maybe UC-Hexanon stands for "U will be Chuffed-Hexanon"?
Now I'm being silly.
I thought so. Totally chuffed by the wee 35mm UC-Hexanon on a Canon body or a Leica M body. Grinning. Maybe UC-Hexanon stands for "U will be Chuffed-Hexanon"?
Now I'm being silly.
Silly maybe;) but it made me laugh.
In general, we say chuffed *with* something. Then there's "to chuff" but that's something totally different :D
Believe me, U will be Chuffed with a UC!
Oh, thanks for all the comments, by the way :D
After discovering this lens and realising that I had enough to buy what seems immeasurably close to my dream lens (35/2 Summicron), I now have No 752/1000 e route from Japan!
Cant wait for this lens, love the pictures I've seen from it and it will be the perfect little brother to my beastly 35 1.2 Nokton.
Will post some shots when it arrives!
J
tbarker13
03-09-2008, 18:19
Good luck with the lens.
I suspect it will cure your 35 summicron urges. I sold my V4 summicron after getting the hexanon.
I do miss the close focus though :(
..But it can be used on a CANON screwmount!
sonyleica
03-12-2008, 01:48
I just grabbed one from Matsuiyastore for $890. Before it was $860. Mine is #661. Another one just bought today by someone for $890. Now Matsuiya is listing two more for $908. Same condition. Don't you think there is sudden interest in this lens lately? Just wondering how many more Matsuiyastore has in stock considering this lens is limited.
DJ
jsuominen
03-12-2008, 03:49
Just wondering how many more Matsuiyastore has in stock considering this lens is limited.
Maybe they are not having their own stock, but they are acquiring the limited lenses on-demand from bigger store or warehouse? And we - and they - maybe know, where the most of the demand and buyers are coming from... :)
sonyleica
03-12-2008, 03:55
Yeah, just hoping they also stock the 28 Hexanon and will list it soon. Hard to find it.
infrequent
03-12-2008, 04:10
@sonyleica - there is one at KEH.
sonyleica
03-13-2008, 20:29
Thanks. Anyway I am looking for a filter for my coming 35 UC Hexanon. Can you recommend one? It will be useful if you can just direct me to one particular online store. I visited B&HVideo site and get confused about which filter that I must buy.
Regards
Difi
Hoya make quite affordable filters in the 43mm thread size this lens needs...
My Hex should arrive any day now and the two other things I ordered were:
- a hoya ND8 filter, this cuts the light entering the lens by 3 stops, i.e. I can use apertures like F2/F4 in bright day light - I am going skiing soon and dont want to have to shoot portraits at f16 all day long (I mostly use 400 speed film).
- a plastic square lens hood off ebay, designed for camcorders, but in the 43mm thread mount.
I would say two useful filters would be a UV filter (if you want to protect your front element but I personally dont use these) and an ND filter (you can get ones of different strength) to allow more flexibilty in aperture/shutter speeds in bright daylight.
J
infrequent
03-14-2008, 02:42
@jamxo - got a link for the square hood? cheers~
Well depends where you are as they are on ebay selling from USA or Japan, although I bought mine from germany (because I live in the UK);
Quick search on ebay:
http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?from=R40&_trksid=m37&satitle=43mm+square+hood&category0=
And the one I bought:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120229509166&ru=http%3A%2F%2Fsearch.ebay.co.uk%3A80%2Fsearch%2F search.dll%3Ffrom%3DR40%26_trksid%3Dm37%26satitle% 3D120229509166%2509%26fvi%3D1
I havent actually recieved mine yet, but i cant see why it wouldn't work, and its not like its that expensive.
P.s. I got the hexanon UC today from matsuiya store, took 5 days from Japan to the UK, really well packaged, and marked as a gift so I paid no import duty. This lens is actually incredible! Going in to university now so let the fun begin!
J
Jungle Jim
03-31-2008, 12:45
Well thanks to this article and Keith and Venchka's pictures, I now have a UC Hexanon #769 from Noriaki. Ordered it Saturday afternoon and it arrived today. Extremely fast shipping and it whizzed through customs in under 3 hours according to the tracking. Just waiting now for a 35/135 LSM adapter to M-mount which should arrive some time next week from KEH in Georgia. Can hardly wait!! Sorry I missed out on Wintoid's UC Hexanon sale.
historicist
03-31-2008, 12:54
Hmm, it makes me wonder how many were originally sold - almost every week for the last year or so Matsuiyastore have had one for sale, and the last time I was in Japan pretty much every major store in Tokyo seemed to have one (second hand, for a bit more than the Matsuiyastore price new, though the exchange rate was very good then).
At a guess, out of the original production of 1000, they must have sold only a few hundred or so... No wonder they left the film camera business.
BTW, the lens appears idenrtical to the Hexar AF lens in performance, but the lens coating is a different colour, so that at least must have been changed.
Jungle Jim
03-31-2008, 13:58
Hmmm. after doing a search at RFF on all of the articles on the UC Hexanon and the listed serial numbers, I count 17 lenses owned by RFF members. Mfunnel, horibilis, jamxo, tbarker13, ISO, Venchka, galavanter, tjh, foto_fool, alan_davus, Hacker, peter_n, Sonnar2, RayPA, wintoid, sonyleica, and jungle jim.
Yo, Jungle Jim, get off the computer and go use that sweet little lens! Grinning. Thanks for the count. I thought it would be higher.
alan davus
04-01-2008, 01:08
Number 686 here. Yes it's a small and exclusive club. Despite the merits of the optics, it's the only lens I've ever owned where I can remember the serial no. Take Wayne's advice, just use it. Another happy Matsuiya store customer.
sonyleica
04-03-2008, 05:27
I am still waiting for the coded adapter from John Milich. In the meantime I have also bought the 50 f2 M Hexanon from Matsuiya. Hopefully it will arrive on Monday from Japan.
An ebay search for UC-Hexanon has come up empty for over a week. Do you think they finally sold all of the new ones?
I just grabbed one from Matsuiyastore for $890. Before it was $860. Mine is #661. Another one just bought today by someone for $890. Now Matsuiya is listing two more for $908. Same condition. Don't you think there is sudden interest in this lens lately? Just wondering how many more Matsuiyastore has in stock considering this lens is limited.
DJnot sure where he got his stocks from, all new!!
it was a limited production of 1000 units only.
An ebay search for UC-Hexanon has come up empty for over a week. Do you think they finally sold all of the new ones?why not drop him a pm - http://stores.ebay.com/Matsuiyastore_W0QQssPageNameZstrkQ3amefsQ3amesstQQ tZkm
I have mine. Just curious if the well has finally run dry.
I was pleasantly surprised to see such a lengthy thread on this lens, but there are not too many examples of shots from it - so I though I would throw in my 2 cents.
I have #712; bought from Matsuiya two months ago, first for my HexarRF and now on my new(ish) MP. I'm both pleased and poor.
Here are two shots - the swing is f/2 (for the bokeh whores) and the pole-thing is about f/5.6 (for the curious).
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3235/2691890501_f7e5479916_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/frqc/2691890501/in/photostream) http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3123/2696381399_592b6ee3d8_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/frqc/2696381399/in/photostream/)
infrequent
07-25-2008, 23:37
he is definitely out of new ones but reckons he can source some used ones. i noticed they were gone and asked.
he is definitely out of new ones but reckons he can source some used ones. i noticed they were gone and asked.
Bummer - I was tempted to buy one from him several times but always ended up holding off. Looks like I should have pulled the trigger when I had the chance. I hope the fact that the "well ran dry" doesn't cause the price of second hand 35/2 UC's to jump out of the atmosphere (ie. Konica 60/1.2, 50/1.2).
Given that the prices of 35/2.0 Summicrons have jumped significantly since I started looking in 2005, I would think that prices for any of the "other" 35/2.0 lenses will keep pace. The Konica 1.2 lenses are keeping pace with the Noctilux. Racheted up because of the extra stops. Heck, even Canon & Nikkor 1.4 & 1.2 lenses are getting more dear.
Rogers: the photo of the child proves once again that Konica lenses don't flare. Well done!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3288/2753032082_68fb25c427_b.jpg
and some more here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/14734139@N00/tags/rfhexauc3520/
cheers, Frank
Continuing to love this lens, so small and the pictures it takes are lovely!
Shot some slide film through it on my m6 the other day:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3044/3080303935_31925a46dd_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3010/3081143834_1ec567cd9d_b.jpg
Anyone still use their UC-Hexanon?
How about some shots on a M9 or M Monochrom ;-)
What are alternative lens hoods, that work well and are compact on this lens (just bought a new sample and intend to keep the new hood in the box)?
Flat Twin
08-29-2012, 08:48
Just wondering if this type:-
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mint-Konica-UC-Hexanon-35mm-F-2-Leica-L39-mount-lens-silver-35-F2-/251055207152?pt=Camera_Lenses&hash=item3a740e72f0
... is the same (optically?) as the UC Hexanons that are being talked about in this thread?
The M Hexanon is different, right?!
The different versions are a tad confusing, I'm interested in the classic double gauss (Nikkor 35/1.8 LTM?) type...
Any info wold be a help!
Simon
david.elliott
08-29-2012, 10:39
Just wondering if this type:-
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mint-Konica-UC-Hexanon-35mm-F-2-Leica-L39-mount-lens-silver-35-F2-/251055207152?pt=Camera_Lenses&hash=item3a740e72f0
... is the same (optically?) as the UC Hexanons that are being talked about in this thread?
The M Hexanon is different, right?!
The different versions are a tad confusing, I'm interested in the classic double gauss (Nikkor 35/1.8 LTM?) type...
Any info wold be a help!
Simon
Not the same.
Internet Lore & Myth says that the 35mm/2.0 UC-Hexanon is optically most nearly related to the 35mm/2.0 Summicron IV. I have no clue. I have never had the IV Summicron in my hands.
As for a hood, I would take a look at Heavystar Photo Gears. See what they have in 43mm.
Here you go. Looks like a clone of my UC-Hexanon hood.
http://www.heavystar.com/servlet/the-14736/New-Metal-43mm-Screw-dsh-in/Detail
Wayne
buzzardkid
08-29-2012, 11:33
Just wondering if this type:-
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mint-Konica-UC-Hexanon-35mm-F-2-Leica-L39-mount-lens-silver-35-F2-/251055207152?pt=Camera_Lenses&hash=item3a740e72f0
... is the same (optically?) as the UC Hexanons that are being talked about in this thread?
The M Hexanon is different, right?!
The different versions are a tad confusing, I'm interested in the classic double gauss (Nikkor 35/1.8 LTM?) type...
Any info wold be a help!
Simon
Hi Simon!
This lens has a write-up on my web site. Not sure I should have sold that lens...
http://portretteur.nl/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=53:uc-hex&catid=37:lenses&Itemid=58
It's optically the same lens as on the Hexar AF. Issue with it is that it 'suffers' from slight focus shift. Something Konica remedied it with the AF on the Hexar, and also remedied it in the UC-Hexanon 2.0/35mm by utilizing coating on all elements instead of only several in the L-Hexanon 2.0/35mm.
Flat Twin
08-30-2012, 01:32
Brilliant, thanks Johan, its becoming clearer now. I'll have a read of your write up. That silver L version looks sweet on the M2!
Simon
Johan, your website post about the UC-Hex was, what I stumbled upon, when I researched the sample, I ended up buying ;-)
Thanks for the post!
I am just a very few days in using the UC-Hexanon, but man, I do love this little lens!
So far, I had no real chance of shooting with it, but had it always with me, to grab some shots, if I can:
http://www.teknopunk.com/images/2012-08-27%20UC-Hex%20IKEA%20and%20Guanghui%20Plaza/L1000043-M9%20Digital%20Camera-35%20f2%20UC-Hexanon%20-%20flower%20pot.jpg
http://www.teknopunk.com/images/2012-08-27%20UC-Hex%20IKEA%20and%20Guanghui%20Plaza/L1000074-M9%20Digital%20Camera-35%20f2%20UC-Hexanon%20-%20portrait%20-%20women%20in%20red%20dress.jpg
http://www.teknopunk.com/images/2012-08-27%20UC-Hex%20IKEA%20and%20Guanghui%20Plaza/L1000036-M9%20Digital%20Camera-35%20f2%20UC-Hexanon%20-%20Casio%20G-Shock.jpg
http://www.teknopunk.com/images/2012-08-28%20UC-Hex%20drive%20by%20shots/L1000107-M9%20Digital%20Camera-35%20f2%20UC-Hexanon%20LTM%20-%20loaded%20motorcycle.jpg
I re-read the whole thing last night.
A sample. Kodachrome. Probably f/8.0 so no bouquet. Click the small photo.
http://gallery.leica-users.org/d/246393-2/Shelby+LUG+Submission-1.jpg (http://gallery.leica-users.org/d/246391-1/Shelby+LUG+Submission-1.jpg)
Wayne
Nice Wayne! Let's reanimate this thread ;-)
Here is a few from my UC-Hex - it is my first choice in 35mm, since I got it:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8435/8018870699_dc94f6b580_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8018870699/)
couple on electro bike in tunnel (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8018870699/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8181/8022096241_48bde8ecff_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022096241/)
man with dog on bicycle (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022096241/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8178/8022098900_5cc4f3f589_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022098900/)
men sorting fruits and meat (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022098900/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8034/8022116306_73ecabe0d8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022116306/)
construction workers (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022116306/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8322/8022116000_6220c5e186_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022116000/)
facade structures (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022116000/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8452/8022106890_068bb3b5cb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022106890/)
couple on electro bike (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8022106890/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
kloudags
11-26-2012, 03:35
Very nice sample pics of the 35mm.
Does anyone here still uses the Konica Hexanon 60mm 1.2, and is willing to sell or trade it? ;) If so, let me know!
Such a hard lens to find, but it's no surprise...
frostfire90
02-24-2013, 16:01
Resurrecting this thread because I've been looking around for this lens for quite a while! I know there's some available on ebay but the prices seem a little unreasonable as compared to what they were sold for at first.
If there's anyone here looking to sell this lens please do not hesitate and drop me a PM :D Thanks!
Resurrecting this thread because I've been looking around for this lens for quite a while! I know there's some available on ebay but the prices seem a little unreasonable as compared to what they were sold for at first.
If there's anyone here looking to sell this lens please do not hesitate and drop me a PM :D Thanks!
There are things in life, that are just as they are.
In my opinion, the UC-Hex easily is worth the high prices on eBay - honestly.
I have a few 35mm lenses and for some strange reason, the UC-Hex is the one, I prefer over all of the others.
If I need closer focussing (seldom), I take a Summilux ASPH.
If I want a more vintage look, I take a 3.5cm Elmar.
If I want to shoot in darkness, the Voigtlander 35/1.2 is an option.
If one seeks a fast 35mm on a budget, in my opinion one of the nicest lenses, little more can buy is the Canon 35/2 LTM - you can't beat this lens for the money!
The UC-Hex punches far over it's weight and values easily for the high going prices on eBay.
Heck, even the less well made Leica 35 Summilux pre ASPH are more expensive (comparing second hand v4 with brand-new UC-Hex prices)!
Just as an aside: I find the UC-Hex to have A LOT of similarities in imaging to the W-Nikkor 35/1.8 (which in my book is possibly THE most beautifully rendering 35mm in it's combination of characteristics).
I would call a UC-Hex a bargain, that goes for less than the Nikkor, as on top of it's nicer built, it is also a lens, that is a lot better as a regular user!
buzzardkid
02-26-2013, 09:19
Dirk,
Would you consider the UC-Hex a better daily user over the W-Nikkor just for size only, or do other aspects come into play too?
Just curious...
Damn it … just crashed the browser with a long write up, comparing the W-Nikkor + UC-Hex with pictures !@#$%
Here is the short version:
UC-Hex:
- lighter
- slightly more compact
- better in regards of flare
- more balanced contrast (not as bitingly sharp and contrasty)
- smoother bokeh
- standard filter thread E43
- tighter built quality (best aperture control ring ever - on any lens)
- veeeeery smooth focus feel
- focusses slightly closer
W-Nikkor:
- higher price in LTM mount (you get a brand new in box UC-Hex for less than a W-Nikkor in user condition)
- uncommon old Nikon filter thread (fine 43mm)
- more cramped controls (with lens hood get's tight between hood and camera body)
- more "harsh" bokeh
- extremely sharp and contrasty (less smooth)
comparison shots:
W-Nikkor:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8356928790_a7c62f923e_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8356928790/)
at IKEA - portrait (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8356928790/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8356928416_4667ef51e0_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8356928416/)
at IKEA - reading (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8356928416/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
UC-Hex:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8092/8415985599_d9a7f06614_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8415985599/)
UC-Hex bokeh (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8415985599/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8352/8417077908_f9e984169a_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8417077908/)
break (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8417077908/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
The world famous sharpness of the W-Nikkor:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8271883960_ef034cdf45_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8271883960/)
35 ƒ1.8 W-Nikkor LTM - first shots - portrait (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8271883960/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8221/8271893986_da7768fa5f_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8271893986/)
35 f1.8 W-Nikkor LTM - first shots - portrait - crop 2-1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/teknopunk/8271893986/) by teknopunk.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/teknopunk/), on Flickr
That last crop is a 2:1 crop and still new detail is revealed at this magnification - this blew me away, when I saw it first with my own eyes!
The W-Nikkor is an amazing technical feat, that kept eclipsing competitors lenses up into the 1990's !!! No wonder this lens has such a strong following. In my opinion, this and the rangefinder Nikkor 105/2.5 are the most impressive lenses of their time in regards of modern look, detail and contrast - while other lenses are amazing as well, these two really stand out and still today have a very modern look to them.
Wanting to ad: if price, size and usability is considered, I would vote hands down for the UC-Hex.
I use mine without a lens hood and most of the time get away with this even in extreme light (the Nikkor flares much, much stronger, which is to be expected).
A lens hood with the Nikkor in my opinion is mandatory, making the UC-Hex in use indeed the smallest, fast 35mm ƒ2 lens available - a great package with a compact camera!
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