Konica 50mm f1.4

How this lens renders

Compared to the 50mm f/1.4 with the same specs, this 1973 Konica Hexanon AR is a dark horse whose optics outclass its price tag. Wide open at f/1.4, the center is sharp enough to use straight away, though the edges are still a touch soft. Stop down to f/2.8 and the contrast snaps up nicely while the edges catch up in sharpness. Peak performance sits in the f/5.6–8 range — sharp enough to hold its own against modern lenses with ease. The bokeh melts the background smoothly. Bokeh balls are clean with no distracting edges; you only get a slight cat's-eye shape in the extreme corners. The midtones carry a gently warm, slightly yellowish cast, and skin tones render with a natural, healthy glow. Wide open, you'll see roughly 1.5–2 stops of vignetting, which can be used to frame the mood of your shot. Stop down to f/4 and it disappears entirely. The multi-coating handles flare well; for heavy backlit shooting, I'd recommend fitting a lens hood. One thing worth knowing: the AR mount makes adapters a bit harder to find than for other brands, but give it a try and you'll be hooked. A genuinely worthwhile lens that deserves a place in any collection.

In the box

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Honest disclosure