The Konica Hexar AF is a legendary film camera that was introduced by the Japanese manufacturer Konica in 1993. It is considered one of the most innovative and advanced autofocus compact cameras of its time. The Hexar AF is known for its exceptional image quality, compact size, and silent operation, making it a popular choice among both professional and amateur photographers.
**Features and Specifications**
The Konica Hexar AF boasts a range of impressive features that set it apart from other film cameras of its era. Let’s take a closer look at some of its key specifications:
1. **Autofocus**: The Hexar AF features a fast and accurate autofocus system that allows you to capture sharp and well-focused images effortlessly. It uses a passive autofocus system with a focus lock function, ensuring precise focusing in various shooting conditions.
2. **Lens**: The camera is equipped with a fixed 35mm f/2 lens, renowned for its exceptional image quality and versatility. The lens provides a classic focal length, making it ideal for a wide range of photography genres, including street, portrait, and landscape.
3. **Silent Shutter**: One of the standout features of the Hexar AF is its whisper-quiet shutter mechanism. Unlike other cameras that produce a noticeable clicking sound, the Hexar AF’s shutter operates almost silently, allowing you to capture candid moments without drawing attention.
4. **Program Mode**: The camera offers a Program mode, which automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed based on the available light conditions. This mode is perfect for those who prefer a simplified shooting experience or are new to film photography.
5. **Film Advance**: The Hexar AF features an advanced motor drive that allows for quick and smooth film advance. It can achieve a maximum continuous shooting speed of up to three frames per second, ensuring you never miss a decisive moment.
6. **Viewfinder**: The camera is equipped with a bright and clear viewfinder that offers a 0.6x magnification. The viewfinder displays frame lines for parallax correction and also features autofocus confirmation and exposure information.
**Price and Availability**
The Konica Hexar AF was initially released in 1993 with a price tag of around $1,000. However, it is worth noting that as a film camera, the Hexar AF is no longer in production. Therefore, finding a brand new unit may be challenging. However, there is a thriving second-hand market where you can find used Hexar AF cameras at varying prices, depending on their condition and any additional accessories included.
**Conclusion**
The Konica Hexar AF film camera remains highly sought after by photographers seeking a reliable and high-quality compact film camera. Its advanced autofocus system, exceptional lens, silent operation, and various other features make it a versatile choice for capturing stunning images in various shooting conditions. Whether you are a professional photographer or an enthusiast, investing in a Konica Hexar AF can provide you with an enjoyable and rewarding film photography experience.
