Minolta's fast MC ultra-wide — the 21mm f/2.8 MC W Rokkor-NL, a premium mid-60s wide prime.
The Minolta MC W Rokkor-NL 21mm f/2.8 is an ultra-wide manual-focus lens for Minolta reflex cameras from the MC generation of the mid-1960s. The W prefix marks it as a wide-angle Rokkor and MC the meter-coupled series. A fast 21mm was a premium ultra-wide of its day, giving photographers a broad field with a usefully bright aperture.
This is a manual-focus ultra-wide lens with a 21mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, part of the meter-coupled MC series. The NL code encodes the element and group configuration in Minolta's scheme. Only the focal length and aperture are stated as verified; other construction figures are not confirmed here and are omitted.
At 21mm the lens delivers a sweeping angle of view for landscapes, architecture and dramatic street perspectives, while the relatively fast f/2.8 aperture, unusual for an ultra-wide of this era, helps with framing in dimmer light and composition in the viewfinder. Its rendering reflects the improved MC coatings over earlier single-coated wides.
On the used market this is a desirable fast MC ultra-wide Rokkor sought by collectors and wide-angle enthusiasts. Because of its age, check for haze, fungus and element separation, confirm the aperture blades are clean and snappy, and verify the focus ring turns smoothly. Inspect the coatings for wear, and use an adapter for mirrorless mounting.