Minolta 35 Model IIB
The Minolta 35 Model IIB is a LTM-mount film rangefinder camera, introduced in 1958. Leica camera price index →
Reference maintained by Thomas Boots
General
- Mount
- LTM
- Release Year
- 1958
- Type
- Film
- Model Number
- Model IIB
- Serial Range
- Approximately 103000 onward, documented end of range unknown
Dimensions
- Weight
- 595g
- Length
- 73mm
- Width
- 138mm
- Height
- 80mm
Viewfinder & Shutter
- Magnification
- 0.8x
- Framelines
- None, fixed 50 mm combined viewfinder and coupled rangefinder
- Shutter Speeds
- T, B, 1 s, 1/2 s, 1/4 s, 1/8 s, 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
- 1/20 s with X flash, FP bulbs usable across the shutter range
Minolta 35 Model IIB
The Minolta 35 Model IIB is the final production model in Minolta's postwar series of interchangeable-lens LTM rangefinders. Released in May 1958, it combines a coupled 0.8x finder, hinged rear door, self timer, lever film advance and cloth focal-plane shutter with speeds to 1/500 second [1].
The camera normally accompanied the new black and chrome Chiyoda Kogaku Super Rokkor 5 cm f/1.8, although its 39 mm screw mount accepts compatible LTM lenses. Published dimensions are 138 x 80 x 73 mm and body weight is approximately 595 to 596 g [2][3].
History
Development and Launch
Model IIB appeared while Chiyoda Kogaku was preparing the Minolta SR-2 SLR. It revised the late Model II body with lever wind, a larger 0.8x finder, new control styling and a roller assisting film transport [1].
Production Evolution
The model began at approximately serial number 103000. A reliable final serial number and factory production total have not been established. The image gate remained approximately 24 x 34 mm, despite older references that describe it as full 24 x 36 mm [1][2].
Special Variants
No factory special edition is required as a separate profile. Lens packages and minor production details belong under this Standard model entry.
Collector Notes
Identify the IIB by its front model engraving, lower-case Minolta wordmark, black shutter dials and advance lever. Verify shutter curtains, rangefinder alignment and the original f/1.8 lens separately, because complete matching outfits are less common than body-only examples [3].
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