Minolta 35 Model B
The Minolta 35 Model B 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 B, collector classification
- Serial Range
- Observed non-contiguous ranges 1482 to 1516 for maker-name-free type a, and approximately 174x to 284x for C.K.S.-marked type b
Dimensions
- Width
- 135mm
- Height
- 75mm
Viewfinder & Shutter
- Magnification
- 0.33x
- Framelines
- None, combined fixed 45 mm viewfinder and coupled rangefinder
- Shutter Speeds
- T, 1 s, 1/2 s, 1/4 s, 1/8 s, B, 1/25 s, 1/35 s, 1/50 s, 1/100 s, 1/200 s and 1/500 s
- Shutter Type
- Cloth
Features
- Hot Shoe
- Yes
- Tripod Socket
- Yes
- Self Timer
- Yes
- Flash Sync
- Unknown, proprietary flashbulb synchronization
Minolta 35 Model B
The Minolta 35 Model B is a collector-defined development of the original 1947 Minolta 35. Mechanically it closely matches the final Model A, retaining the 24 x 32 mm format, combined 0.33x rangefinder/viewfinder, hinged back, self timer and cloth shutter to 1/500 second [1].
Its principal distinction is the maker marking. The earliest type a bodies have a blank maker-name area, while type b introduces the abbreviation “C.K.S.” for Chiyoda Kōgaku Seikō [1].
History
Development and Launch
Model B followed Model A during 1947. The letter was assigned retrospectively by collectors, as the camera itself remained marketed simply as Minolta 35 [1].
Production Evolution
Only two blank-name type a examples, serials 1482 and 1516, are firmly documented. C.K.S.-marked type b examples occupy observed numbers approximately from 174x to 284x and introduce a later rewind-knob detail near the end [1].
Special Variants
Blank and C.K.S.-marked bodies are recognized production types within Model B, not commemorative editions.
Collector Notes
Maker engraving is essential for separating Model B from the final Model A and following Model C. Confirm the 24 x 32 mm frame and 0.33x finder. As with Model A, the shoe contact is proprietary and should not be treated as a modern hot shoe.
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