Konica Hexar Black1995

History

Konica launched the Hexar AF in 1993 initially in a standard black-with-chrome-trim body and a silver-finish variant. The camera drew immediate attention from advanced amateur and professional compact shooters for the combination of the Hexanon 35/2 lens -- a genuinely fast optic by compact standards -- and the silent mode, which reduced mechanical camera noise to a level useful in quiet environments. The first batches were sold primarily in Japan; export availability followed.

Over the production run, Konica issued a series of cosmetic variants: a Silver finish, a Classic (with leatherette and retro-inspired trim), a Rhodium edition, and a Gold edition, the last two in very small quantities. The all-black variant -- in which the chrome barrel trim is replaced with black-finished equivalents for a uniform stealthy appearance -- was produced and released in approximately 1995. Production quantities for this variant are not publicly documented.

Konica merged with Minolta in 2003, ending the Hexar AF production line. All variants were discontinued at that point.

Why It Matters

The Hexar Black's practical value is identical to the standard Hexar AF: the Hexanon 35/2 and silent mode are the substance. The all-black finish matters for two reasons. First, discretion: a uniform black body reflects less light and draws less visual attention than a chrome-trimmed camera -- a real consideration for documentary, street, and performance photographers working in proximity to subjects. Second, secondary market value: limited-variant Hexars with coherent premium finishes hold value better than standard production models.

The Hexanon 35/2 optical formula (7 elements, 6 groups) produces a character that differs from contemporaries like the Contax T2's Zeiss T* Sonnar 38/2.8: the Hexanon is faster by a full stop, renders mid-shadow values with a warmth that Zeiss glass does not, and opens up to f/2 in ways that the T2 cannot match. Neither is objectively superior; the Hexar's lens is faster but renders slightly differently, and the choice between them is a matter of shooting style and aesthetic preference.

In 2026, the Hexar Black trades above the standard Hexar AF and below the Contax T2 on the used market. The Hexanon 35/2 makes it a compelling alternative for photographers who want the fastest fixed lens in a 35mm premium compact without paying T2 prices.

Lenses & Accessories

Lens is fixed; no interchangeable mount.

Accessories:

• HX-14 dedicated flash -- Konica's compact flash designed for the Hexar body profile.
• Standard hotshoe flashes work at all shutter speeds; leaf shutter design eliminates the high-speed sync limitation of focal-plane shutters.
• Original Konica leather case: rare and sought by collectors.
• Third-party half-cases in leather or synthetic have become available from Japanese artisan makers.

Sample Photographers / Notable Use

• Favored by street and documentary photographers who wanted the Hexar AF's silent mode and fast lens in the least visually conspicuous finish available.
• The Hexar AF platform (all variants) is discussed on 35mmc, Casual Photophile, and rangefinder photography forums as one of the premier 35mm compacts of the 1990s.
• No confirmed associations with a specific named photographer who publicly used the Black variant specifically.

References

• Camera-Wiki: Konica Hexar AF - full technical specification for the Hexar AF platform and variant list
• Wikipedia: Konica Hexar - variant and production history
• 35mmc Hexar coverage - real-world use, comparative buying notes, and reader reviews