Minolta A
From Camerapedia.org
 Picture by Voxphoto. (Image rights) |
 Picture by Voxphoto. (Image rights) |
The Minolta A was launched by Chiyoda Kogaku in 1955. It was the first of a new series of rangefinder cameras with a four element Rokkor 1:3.5/45mm lens, an optical viewfinder with superimposed coupled rangefinder, and a rapid wind advance lever. Earliest version had a two-blade Konan Flicker shutter, B, 1/2-1/200s; later versions had Citizen Optiper MX shutters, B, 1-1/300s, all were M and X flash-synchronized. It was an entry level camera for advanced 35mm photography that was ahead of more expensive popular American rangefinder camera models. The Minolta "A" series was developed through the A-2, A-3, A-5, and then into the AL series that were marketed alongside the Hi-Matics. Maybe one of the early cameras that marked the beginning of the victory of Japanese products on the international market.
Links
 Column in the October 1955 special issue of Photo Art. |
In English:
In French:
- Minolta A at www.collection-appareils.fr
In Japanese:
