Does anyone hasexperience with the LTM version Minolta G-Rokkor 28/3.5 lens (the same one as used on the TC1)? How does it compare optically with other 28mm lenses currently available in M or LTM mounts? There is one sitting on a local dealer's shelf and it does look rather attractive!

Franz

-- Franz Li (franzlist@yahoo.com), July 30, 2001

Answers

This compact lens is derived from the one on the TC1,and was over priced just like the camera. It is made of only 5 elements in 5 groups, sold I believe in Japan only and is supposed to be sharp and contrasty, but with noticeable corner fall off on the exposures. With Voiglander now pumping out fantastic affordable LTM lenses like the 28 f1.9, I wouldn't pay top dollar for the f3.5 Rokkor at this point as a user. I do think that lens is very hard to find, so probably has some extra value as a collectable piece.

-- Andrew Schank (aschank@flash.net), July 31, 2001.

Ah, my old friend the G-Rokkor 28/f3.5! Yes I've used it for about 2 years. It takes good pictures. It's light. It does not hog the finder. The depth of field scale is very good. Ease of operation is great. It has an annoying protruding rear element. I had to make special M rear caps for it. It is slow--which wasn't an issue until that Voigtland 28/f1.9 came along. I got it at a discount, but, yeah it is a bit pricey. I wouldn't buy it now. But then what a sweet little lens. Maybe I would still...

I was out with it the other day mounted on my M-4. It balances so nicely on it. I also had my M-3 with the new 28-24-21 zoom finder.

If you can find one a price you like get it by all means. There will be times when light weight will be more important than speed.

Light fall-off. I never noticed. I do street work, which might be the reason.

-- Alex Shishin (shishin@pp.iij4u.or.jp), July 31, 2001.