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11-06-2020, 11:25 AM   #1
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Konica Autoreflex Questions

This is a spin off from my FS-1 thread. Different members got me curious about the Auto-Reflex/ Autoreflex lineup. I have been doing some research and want to make sure I am understanding things correctly.

First, the half frame capability is only available on the first generation, and they also had a different lens mount than later generations. (I would like my FS-1 lenses to fit) Also the first generation had the hyphenated name. They are also more expensive to aquire than later generations.

The later T generations seem to be a good camera with the T"2" and T3"N" being the better of each. T4 had good reviews except going to more plastic.

From what I read, their inherit problems can be poor solder joints in the battery compartment, and "can't advance/shutter won't fire".

Is that a very comprehensive summary of the models, and problems, that I should be looking for?

Also, I don't want to overpay for one. Any input on price range vs. condition would be helpful as well.

TIA

11-06-2020, 11:29 AM   #2
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I have an entire set up of the Konica T3 and am sorry they never went digital (sold into Minolta). Their lenses were sharp and they had a fairly good selection.
That said, the only issues I ever had was when Mercury batteries were discontinued, making the meter readings off. I still have them all!
11-06-2020, 11:53 AM   #3
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From what I have read, you can have the meter recalibrated for the modern batteries on just about any metered camera from that era....if it bothers one too much. :-)
11-06-2020, 01:13 PM   #4
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QuoteOriginally posted by Sam_I_am Quote
From what I have read, you can have the meter recalibrated for the modern batteries on just about any metered camera from that era....if it bothers one too much. :-)
Much depends on the nature of the meter circuit. Those what use variants of the Wheatstone bridge are not voltage dependent. Those that don't will require recalibration or another option. MR-9 and H-C step-down adapters are what I suggest. I have had good luck dealing the maker direct from Japan...cheaper than having the meter tuned.

Kanto Camera | Battery Adapters

A good tech might also wire a step-down diode directly into the meter circuit.


Steve

11-06-2020, 11:11 PM   #5
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Greg Weber specializes in repair and sales of Konica.
His website may have some useful information for you.

Chris
11-07-2020, 04:12 PM   #6
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QuoteOriginally posted by ChrisPlatt Quote
Greg Weber specializes in repair and sales of Konica.
His website may have some useful information for you.

Chris
Thanks Chris, I will peruse the site and see what I can learn.
11-08-2020, 03:48 AM   #7
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The first with half frame capability are also labelled "Autorex".
I've seen and tried it in a while and it was fitted with Konica AR 28mm, it is a little over $100, somewhat like $120-150 in my region with lens, so not too expensive.
Don't have enough experience to say if they have problems.

11-08-2020, 10:42 AM - 1 Like   #8
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Konica Auto-Reflex is very robust and the switchable full/half frame is clever.

11-09-2020, 12:48 PM   #9
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I loved my T3 and still have an A3 that I had dropped (maybe get it fixed again). They were under appreciated systems!
11-13-2020, 07:00 AM   #10
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Conventional wisdom has it that Konica lenses were better than Konica cameras.

My Auto S2 rangefinder was pretty good, however later T4 and TC
SLR models I owned seemed poorly made and failed quickly.

Chris
11-13-2020, 10:35 AM   #11
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QuoteOriginally posted by ChrisPlatt Quote
Conventional wisdom has it that Konica lenses were better than Konica cameras.

My Auto S2 rangefinder was pretty good, however later T4 and TC
SLR models I owned seemed poorly made and failed quickly.

Chris
That must be why they are significantly cheaper than earlier models.
11-13-2020, 01:05 PM   #12
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QuoteOriginally posted by ChrisPlatt Quote
Conventional wisdom has it that Konica lenses were better than Konica cameras.My Auto S2 rangefinder was pretty good, however later T4 and TCSLR models I owned seemed poorly made and failed quickly.Chris
I saw the T4 and TC when they came out and yes, they seemed cheaper than the older AR models. The T3's were tanks and took a lot!
12-24-2020, 05:36 PM   #13
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I just had a T"2 body arrive today. Really nice shape. Hopefully I get a chance check it out this weekend.
12-24-2020, 05:47 PM   #14
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QuoteOriginally posted by Sam_I_am Quote
I just had a T"2 body arrive today. Really nice shape. Hopefully I get a chance check it out this weekend.
I have a T, T4 & TC. The meter doesn't work on any of them. But I do have a working TC-X, the last AR camera marketed by Konica, made by Cosina.
12-26-2020, 03:57 AM - 1 Like   #15
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The wire breaks at the battery box and renders the meter useless. Luck for you the T2 can be accessed from the bottom of the camera, there fore you dont need to split the body to fix it as in the autoflex t and theT3 . IF you have any questions let me know.
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Last edited by niceshot; 12-26-2020 at 04:07 AM.
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