Difference between revisions of "Konica Auto S2"
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| − | The '''Konica Auto S2''' is a Japanese [[35mm]] fixed-lens [[rangefinder camera]] that was produced in 1965 by [[Konishiroku Photo Industry Company]]. The camera differs from the earllier Auto S by having a [[Hexanon]] 1:1.8-16 45mm lens and with its CDS [[meter]] cell re-located to the name ring in the front of the lens. This relocation of the sensor has a couple advantages... One is that the lens cap now covers the sensor as well, effectively turning off the metering system and preserving battery power. Another is that metering will be correct when a filter is fitted, since the sensor is now located behind the filter as well. Like it's predecessor, an optional pull-out [[lens hood|hood]] accessory was available for flare reduction. | + | The '''Konica Auto S2''' is a Japanese [[35mm]] fixed-lens [[rangefinder camera]] that was produced in 1965 by [[Konishiroku Photo Industry Company]]. The camera differs from the earllier [[Auto S]] by having a [[Hexanon]] 1:1.8-16 45mm lens and with its CDS [[meter]] cell re-located to the name ring in the front of the lens. This relocation of the sensor has a couple advantages... One is that the lens cap now covers the sensor as well, effectively turning off the metering system and preserving battery power. Another is that metering will be correct when a filter is fitted, since the sensor is now located behind the filter as well. Like it's predecessor, an optional pull-out [[lens hood|hood]] accessory was available for flare reduction. |
There is one variant of this model, called the the Auto S2 "New" or the Auto S2 "EL" in different markets. These are actually the same variant, designated by a small round silver label on the right, front of the camera. The difference is an improved film take-up spool, that makes film loading easier. "EL" is short for "Easy Load". | There is one variant of this model, called the the Auto S2 "New" or the Auto S2 "EL" in different markets. These are actually the same variant, designated by a small round silver label on the right, front of the camera. The difference is an improved film take-up spool, that makes film loading easier. "EL" is short for "Easy Load". | ||
Revision as of 19:49, 30 August 2012
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| Konica Auto S2 image by Corey Knafelz |
The Konica Auto S2 is a Japanese 35mm fixed-lens rangefinder camera that was produced in 1965 by Konishiroku Photo Industry Company. The camera differs from the earllier Auto S by having a Hexanon 1:1.8-16 45mm lens and with its CDS meter cell re-located to the name ring in the front of the lens. This relocation of the sensor has a couple advantages... One is that the lens cap now covers the sensor as well, effectively turning off the metering system and preserving battery power. Another is that metering will be correct when a filter is fitted, since the sensor is now located behind the filter as well. Like it's predecessor, an optional pull-out hood accessory was available for flare reduction.
There is one variant of this model, called the the Auto S2 "New" or the Auto S2 "EL" in different markets. These are actually the same variant, designated by a small round silver label on the right, front of the camera. The difference is an improved film take-up spool, that makes film loading easier. "EL" is short for "Easy Load".
The "Auto S2" on top of the camera is in a script font and is sometimes misread as "Auto 52" by persons unfamiliar with the designation. There is no "Konica Auto 52" model.
Another variant, perhaps, the camera was also marketed by Montgomery Wards department stores and catalog sales in the U.S., as the "Wards am550" and "Wards am551" (the latter is the "New" or "EL" version". These are lens labelled "Hexar" and "Cyclops". Likely the lens is no different from the Hexanon fitted to the Konica, just branded differently.
The camera might also have been offered in Europe under the Revue brand name.
Technical Information
- Film: 35 millimeter film in safety cartridge.
- Lens: Hexanon f/1.8, f=45mm 6 elements in 4 groups, 55mm filter
- Shutter: Copal SVA (B, 1, 2, 4, 8, 15, 30, 60, 125, 250, 500)
- Meter: Cds, powered by 1.3v mercury, with battery test
- Dimensions: 138mm (width) x 82.2mm (height) x 73.5mm (thickness)
- Weight: 750 grams
Links
- Instruction Manual (scan from kyphoto.com)
- On fixing the shutter, a well-illustrated discussion at Nelsonfoto forums
- JJ's French language page on the Konica Auto S2
- Konica Auto S2 and User manual on www.collection-appareils.fr by Sylvain Halgand
- Konica Auto S2 Group at Flickr
