I recently acquired a Hexar AF, which i believe isn't easy to source for nowadays, and I've been using it to reasonable satisfaction. The
lens is sharp - though not as sharp as i had hoped, as pictures still show reasonable grain even when i view them on my laptop without
much magnification. Still, there is little to complain about in regards to its autofocus and metering, both of which are bang on accurate
most of the time. However, its not portable at all, being the rough size of a M6 - it is difficult to bring out without carrying a bag to safely
put in. When i need to use it, drawing it from my bagpack reduces the speed required in shooting street.
Thus i have considered point and shoots (since the Hexar isn't a rangefinder strictly speaking, it functions just like a PnS) given their
convenient sizes. May i just tap on all your experiences with the following cameras and recommendations if you have any! I am strongly
considering the Contax T2 - my concerns are however about its allegedly slow AF. Can anyone testify to this? Is it slow enough that it
frustrates shooters on the street? Also, how does the famous Zeiss glass compare to that of the Hexar with its supposedly Summicron-
based 35mm f2? If it matches up to the Hexar in terms of speed and lens quality, I would think the Cpntax is viable as an option.
My long term concern for both cameras is durability. Does anyone have comments as to the expected durability of either camera? A local
camera shop sells a T2 for 400 USD, and a Hexar for 420 USD. Would I be better off buying a spare Hexar for that price? Or should i
make the conversion to the T2? Which do you feel is a better long term investment?
Thank you all.
