Minolta AF 70-210mm f/4 lens

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Key features
Minolta 70-210mm f/4

Maker:	Minolta
Ultrasonic motor:	No
Macro capable:	Yes
Technical data
Type:	Zoom
Focal length:	70-210mm
Frame coverage:	34.3°-11.7°
Aperture (max/min):	f/4 - f/32
Construction:	12 groups / 9 elements
# Diaphragm blades:	7 blades
Close focus distance:	1.1 m
Max. magnification:	1/4
Physical
Max. length:	168 mm
Weight:	695 g
Filter diameter:	55 mm
Accessories
Lens hood:	Metal or plastic clip-on
Angle of view
Horizontal:	34.3°-11.7°
History
Introduced:	1985
Retail info
MSRP US$	As of 2008, frequently available second-hand on auction websites at prices ranging between £50 and £120.

The Minolta AF 70-210mm f/4 lens is an autofocusing telephoto photographic lens compatible with cameras using the Minolta AF lens mount. The lens is colloquially known as the "beercan" by Minolta camera users because the lens shape and size closely match the proportions of a typical aluminum beer can.

It was introduced in 1985 at the launch of the Minolta Maxxum/Dynax/Alpha 7000 camera (the first ever autofocus SLR to make mass production) and remained in production for many years. Production slowed and then eventually stopped; its successors, the 70-210/3.5-4.5 and 70-210/4.5-5.6 had none of the qualities of the original and build and image quality decreased.

It remains popular, however, for use on digital single lens reflex cameras using the AF system, such as the Minolta Maxxum 7D or the Sony α. Although relatively bulky and weighty, the lens is valued for its solid build, sharpness and smooth bokeh effect. The "beercan" has now gained somewhat of a ledgendary status, with prices on the market increasing as many people are purchasing them for the recent introduction of the Sony α.

[edit] See also

Minolta AF

[edit] References

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