One of the accepted definitions of the 'perfect' normal lens for a 35mm full-frame camera, a lens that reproduces a field of view that appears natural to a human observer, is based on the diagonal of the film frame, which measures 43.3mm.
A lens unique to the interpretation of this definition is the Minolta MD Rokkor-X 45m, 1:2.0, a very compact lens with a focal length that is very close to the measured distance. Introduced in 1978, and only available as an MDII version, this lens is a rare case as Minolta will normally be replicated and make the lenses available over their camera version releases.
Not quite a true pancake, the lens is a blend of a plastic body and a 6-elements and 5-group glass. It measures 30.5 mm in length and weighs 125 grams, comes with 5 aperture blades, a minimum aperture of F16, and a minimum focusing distance of 0.6 meters.
With a large open aperture of 1:2, the lens is also a potentially good bokeh lens, and with its compact size, it makes the lens a worthwhile consideration for the street shooter, fashion, or lifestyle photographer, simply as a lowlight lens or one to get good background separation with.
At most times unnoticed, and grossly underrated except by gig lens connoisseurs, the Minolta MD Rokkor-X 45mm 1:2 is more than the sum of its parts. Images are exceptionally sharp, with good mid-tone contrast and accurate color reproduction. It is lightweight both on the wallet and in the camera bag, and to whichever Minolta body it is found attached to, it is the go-to lens.
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