Minolta X-300 zwart + MD 1,7/50mm | Single lens reflex camera (SLR)

This underappreciated Minolta X-300 is one of the best SLR cameras for beginners.

The camera has an electronically controlled slit shutter with a fabric curtain. The shutter speed can be manually adjusted in steps from 1 second to 1/1000 second via the covered dial on top of the camera. However, in aperture priority mode, the shutter speed is infinitely adjustable and can stay open for up to four seconds in low light conditions.

The light meter is mounted in the pentaprism and provides an average light value with a centroid in the middle. Unlike many more expensive diaphragm-preference cameras, the camera does not continue measuring while the shutter is open (because the mirror is raised and therefore no light hits the light meter). So, if a change in light occurs during or just before the exposure, while the mirror is raised, the camera will not compensate for this.

Like all cameras with an MD mount, the lens mount has an internal mechanism to close the diaphragm when taking a photo, and an external rotatable ring that is moved by a notch on the lens to communicate the diaphragm setting. (To be precise, this ring indicates to the camera the difference between the current lens setting and the maximum aperture. In TTL light metering, the camera does not need to know the exact f-values, only the brightness measured at the maximum aperture and the number of stops below the maximum at which the lens is currently set.)

When the shutter speed button is set to 'Auto', the camera is in aperture priority mode and selects a shutter speed based on the light intensity and the lens's aperture setting. The shutter speed is displayed in the viewfinder: when the photographer touches the contact points of the shutter release, a light appears next to the shutter speed mark at the edge of the viewfinder. An 'A' for 'Auto' also appears in aperture priority mode.

When the shutter speed dial is set to a different position, an 'M' appears instead of an 'A', indicating that the camera is in manual exposure mode. The camera displays a flashing light for the selected shutter speed and a steady light for the recommended shutter speed (determined by the aperture). By turning the aperture or shutter speed dial so that the lights align, correct exposure is achieved. This mode mimics the functionality of older Minolta cameras with a match-needle feature, such as the SRT-101, where the two needles are replaced by lights. It also provides a good analogy to the shutter speed priority mode, as the photographer is free to choose a shutter speed and then quickly align the lights just before taking the shot.

The camera also features an AE lock: by holding down this button, the exposure setting is locked as long as the button remains pressed. This allows the photographer to meter specific parts of the scene that might otherwise be under- or overexposed. Pressing the AE lock button also lights up the light meter. The meter stays on for 15 seconds after the photographer releases the shutter button or the AE lock button.

The camera has been tested and functions properly. Some cosmetic signs of age and previous use. A camera that you can enjoy a lot.

See the photos to get a good idea of the condition of the camera; they are part of the description. You get what you see!

Shipping with DPD, GLS, or DHL.

It is well packaged and shipped quickly. We are not responsible for additional taxes levied outside the EU or for returns if you are not at home.

Good luck with the auction and success!