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Konica Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4
Konica Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4
Lens dataThe Hexanon 200 mm / F4 is a late addiction to the Konica lens line-up. In the early 80s, it supplanted the 200 mm lenses offered so far, the 
Hexanon AR 200 mm / F3.5, and the Hexar AR 200 mm / F4. Different from these, it has a smallest aperture 22, so that the exposure capabilities of the newer bodies could be used to full extent.
Because the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4 was added late, there were no subsequent changes made to this lens. All lenses of this type have the rubberized focusing ring, a smallest aperture 22, and the green AE mark.
The different optical construction allowed for much more compact dimensions and much lighter weight. Of all 200 mm Konica SLR lenses, the Hexanon AR 200 mmm / F4 is by far the smallest and lightest. In addition, it can – different from the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F3.5 – use the 55 mm filters common with most Konica lenses.
Unfortunately, the price was a slower speed and a slightly inferior image quality. Although the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4 is visibly sharper than the Hexar AR 200 mm / F4, it does not quite reach the outstanding image quality of the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F3.5. The faster predecessor produces sharper images. All in all, the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4 is still a good lens however, rendering distortion-free, contrasty images with good colour rendition and satisfying sharpness.
Which of the two Hexanon 200 mm lenses you prefer is a matter of taste. If the emphasis is on sharpness, the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F3.5 is the better choice. If the emphasis is on small size, weight savings, and handiness with a still good image quality, you should go for the newer Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4.
Like with most telephoto lenses and their big and not recessed front elements, the consequent use of a lens hood is recommended for the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4 to avoid loss of contrast due to stray light. It provides a built-in lens shade, which is a bit shallow to provide adequate protection. With a deeper third-party lens hood, better results can be achieved.
Because it was only offered for a relatively short time, the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4 is not found as easily. It is only being offered once in a while – prices are adequate, it is mostly sold for slightly less than the Hexanon AR 200 mm / F3.5.
Size comparison of different 200 mm lenses:
Hexanon AR 200 mm / F3.5 (left)
Hexanon AR 200 mm / F4 (centre)
Hexar AR 200 mm / F4 (right)
Lens data
| Angle of view: | 12° |
| Construction: | 5 elements in 5 groups |
| Aperture: | Fully automatic AE, smallest aperture 22 |
| Closest focusing: | 2.5 m (8 ft 23/8") |
| Filter thread: | 55 mm |
| Length (at ∞): | 121 mm (43/4") |
| Weight: | 515 g (1 lb 21/8 oz) |
| Lens hood: | built-in |
| Lens diagram: |  |
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