Minolta XK
Up for bids is this hard to find vintage Minolta XK camera body; one of the early pioneers of auto exposure control.
The XK was Minolta's answer to the professional class bodies of Nikon F2 and the Canon F-1 in 1971. It was designed from ground up as a full system camera, which include a new line of Rokkor-X lenses. It forms the basis for future Minolta's electronic cameras but more amazingly, in terms of technological advancement, I would rate this camera far ahead of any of any of the rivaling labels. Technical highlights include an AE prism for aperture priority AE, an electronically controlled titanium focal plane shutter, a meter-on sensor touch method, interchangeable finders, screens and a host of close-up and other system accessories. Some of the camera design concept where Minolta adopted for this camera were truly visionary - features like the "senswitch" auto meter on feature, AE exposure etc. it was never short of features that excite even a demanding camera enthusiast who may be considering to setup a full new system. In fact, the XK series can easily take on later competitions such as the Nikon F3, the Canon F-1N as well as the Pentax LX of the early 1980s, with functions like the 4 interchangeable prisms (A unique Auto Electro Metered Prism, waist level, high magnification and a plain eye level Finder), 9 user interchangeable focusing screens, 250 bulk film back, a dedicated true motor drive capable of either single or moderate continuous speed of 3.5 fps for power film advance (Sold as a piece with the camera as "XK" or "XM Motor"); further, a host of system accessories designed around its modular camera body can cater for remote and unmanned photography. The camera also provide a generous shutter speed range of 1/2000 to full 16 sec. Lastly, it was fittingly compatible with virtually all system accessories in the 35mm Minolta SLR optical system.
Cosmetics:
As you can see from the photos, the camera body is in good condition. Some dings, scuffs and brassing - photos show all sides for you to make your own conclusion.
The shutter fires at all speeds and sounds reasonable, but the mirror often hangs up. I don't have a shutter tester to determine accuracy of the speeds. Self timer works fine. Meter is reacting to light and gives similair reading to my Nikon F2AS. A coveted P screen is installed and is in excellent shape
Typical to any vintage camera, a CLA (Clean, lube adjustment) and new seals would be recommended if the goal is to put it back into service. Especially to address the hanging mirror
This sale includes:
1 - Minolta XK camera serial #3022225
1 - AE Eyelevel Finder #1247373
1 - P Focusing Screen
A great deal on vintage classic camera gear is waiting to be had, so get bidding today!
Be sure to check out my other vintage photo equipment up for auction this week!
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