Minolta 35 Model A
The Minolta 35 Model A is a LTM-mount film rangefinder camera, introduced in 1947. Leica camera price index →
Reference maintained by Thomas Boots
General
- Mount
- LTM
- Release Year
- 1947
- Type
- Film
- Model Number
- Model A, collector classification
- Serial Range
- Approximately 027x to 144x across collector-classified types a, b and c
Dimensions
- Width
- 135mm
- Height
- 75mm
Viewfinder & Shutter
- Magnification
- 0.33x
- Framelines
- None, combined fixed 45 mm viewfinder and coupled rangefinder
- Shutter Speeds
- Early bodies: T, 1 s, 1/2 s, 1/5 s, 1/10 s, B, 1/25 s, 1/35 s, 1/50 s, 1/100 s, 1/200 s and 1/500 s; type c replaces 1/5 and 1/10 with 1/4 and 1/8 s
- Shutter Type
- Cloth
Features
- Hot Shoe
- Yes
- Tripod Socket
- Yes
- Self Timer
- Yes
- Flash Sync
- Unknown, proprietary flashbulb synchronization
Minolta 35 Model A
The Minolta 35 Model A is the collector-classified first version of Minolta's postwar LTM rangefinder. Introduced in 1947, it combines a die-cast body, hinged back, fixed take-up spool, self timer and combined 0.33x rangefinder/viewfinder [1].
Its image area is approximately 24 x 32 mm, yielding about 40 exposures from film normally rated for 36. The usual standard lens was the compact Chiyoko Super Rokkor 45 mm f/2.8 [1].
History
Development and Launch
Chiyoda Kōgaku launched the Minolta 35 in spring 1947. “Model A” was not a factory engraving, but a later collector classification applied after officially named models appeared [1].
Production Evolution
Observed serials run approximately from 027x to 144x. Types a and b use a slow-speed dial lock and 1/5 and 1/10 settings. Type c deletes the lock and adopts 1/4 and 1/8 second [1].
Special Variants
The a, b and c distinctions describe production evolution within the standard Model A profile, not special editions.
Collector Notes
Verify the “CHIYODA-KOGAKU OSAKA” top engraving, absence of strap lugs and early frame-counter details. The center pressure ball in the shoe is a proprietary flash contact, not a modern universal hot-shoe terminal.
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