Minolta 35 Model II
The Minolta 35 Model II is a LTM-mount film rangefinder camera, introduced in 1953. Leica camera price index →
Reference maintained by Thomas Boots
General
- Mount
- LTM
- Release Year
- 1953
- Type
- Film
- Model Number
- Model II
- Serial Range
- Observed non-contiguous production ranges approximately 3536x to 5940x and 7012x to 10182x across types a1, a2, b1 and b2
Dimensions
- Weight
- 575g
- Width
- 135mm
- Height
- 79mm
Viewfinder & Shutter
- Magnification
- 0.7x
- Framelines
- None, combined viewfinder and coupled rangefinder, field matched to supplied 45 mm or 50 mm standard lens depending on version
- 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
- No
- Tripod Socket
- Yes
- Self Timer
- Yes
- Flash Sync
- 1/25 s on type a2 and later X-synchronized versions; earlier type a1 behavior is less clearly documented
Minolta 35 Model II
The Minolta 35 Model II is a major 1953 development of Minolta's LTM rangefinder. It retains a combined 0.7x finder, self timer, hinged back and 1/500 second cloth shutter while adding a more secure baseplate lock and PC flash connection [1].
Four collector-recognized versions span early and redesigned bodies. Standard-lens choices evolved from the 45 mm f/2.8 Rokkor to 50 mm f/2 and f/2.8 lenses, with the finder mask altered to suit the narrower 50 mm field [1].
History
Development and Launch
Model II appeared in 1953. Type a1 retained the earlier cover design but introduced the PC socket and a new baseplate lock that also operated Minolta reusable cassettes [1].
Production Evolution
Type a2 added a red X and documented 1/25 second electronic sync. From 1955, types b1 and b2 introduced redesigned top and bottom plates, revised finder masks, new standard lenses and later machined film guides [1].
Special Variants
Types a1, a2, b1 and b2 are production stages within one Model II profile, not special editions.
Collector Notes
Identify the precise version through serial range, cover design, finder-window width, red X marking, standard lens and internal film guides. The later Model IIB adds lever wind and should remain a separate profile.
Comments