What is the Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens?
The Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens is a classic lens that was produced by Minolta, a renowned Japanese camera manufacturer. This lens is specifically designed for Minolta’s manual focus film cameras, such as the Minolta SR-T series. It is not compatible with digital cameras without the use of an adapter.
The Quality and Features of the Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens
Released in the 1970s, the Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional image quality and versatility. With a maximum aperture of f/1.7, this lens is capable of capturing stunning images with a shallow depth of field, allowing the subject to stand out from the background.
The 85mm focal length is ideal for portrait photography, as it provides a natural perspective and allows the photographer to capture flattering portraits with a pleasing bokeh effect. The lens construction consists of six elements in five groups, including multi-coated optics, which reduce lens flare and ghosting, resulting in sharp and contrasty images.
Price and Availability
When it was first released, the Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens had a retail price of around $200. However, as it is no longer in production, it can now only be found in the used market. The price of a used lens varies depending on its condition, rarity, and included accessories, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300.
If you are interested in this lens, you can check online platforms, such as auction websites or dedicated camera gear marketplaces. Additionally, visiting local camera stores or photography communities might offer an opportunity to find this lens.
Experience with the Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens
As an avid photographer, I had the pleasure of using the Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens on my Minolta film camera. The lens truly impressed me with its image quality and the gorgeous bokeh it produced. When shooting portraits, the lens delivered tack-sharp subjects with a pleasing blur in the background.
One aspect that I particularly loved about this lens was its robust build quality. The metal construction gave it a solid and durable feel, which is essential for a lens that may have experienced decades of use. The smooth focusing ring allowed for precise manual focusing, ensuring I could achieve the desired sharpness in every shot.
Although this lens may require some practice to master manual focusing, the results are rewarding. The images produced by the Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens have a timeless quality that adds a touch of nostalgia to my photography. It truly is a gem for any photography enthusiast or collector.
In conclusion, the Minolta 85mm f/1.7 MC Rokkor-X Lens is a legendary piece of equipment that offers exceptional image quality, beautiful bokeh, and a robust build. While it may be an older lens, it continues to be highly regarded among photographers who appreciate the charm of shooting with vintage equipment. If you have a compatible Minolta film camera, this lens is definitely worth considering for your photography kit.
