Minolta CLE + grip Rangefinder camera

05
days
00
hours
28
minutes
21
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Edwin Molenaar
Expert
Selected by Edwin Molenaar

Over 30 years experience in photography and camera building.

Estimate  € 1,100 - € 1,250
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Minolta CLE with grip, a 35mm film Leica M‑mount rangefinder, in mint physical condition and tested and working.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

"The Minolta CLE is widely regarded as one of the most sophisticated compact M-mount rangefinder cameras of the film era. Introduced in 1980, it combined the classical appeal of manual-focus rangefinder photography with a level of electronic sophistication that was exceptionally advanced for its time. With Leica M-mount compatibility, TTL metering, and aperture-priority automatic exposure, the CLE holds a very special place in rangefinder history and remains highly respected by both collectors and active photographers.

What makes the CLE especially appealing is the balance it offers between compactness, practicality, and technical ambition. It carries forward the compact spirit of the earlier Leica CL concept, but develops it into a more modern and capable camera with more advanced automation and a broader photographic versatility. This gives the CLE a particularly strong identity: it is not merely a compact M-mount body, but a thoughtfully evolved rangefinder designed for serious everyday use.

Because of its combination of Leica-mount heritage, advanced exposure system, and compact handling, the Minolta CLE continues to attract lasting interest in today’s market. It is valued not only as an important late-era rangefinder camera, but also as a highly usable photographic tool for those who appreciate small mechanical-electronic bodies with true M-mount character.

Offered here is a beautiful Minolta CLE 35mm rangefinder film camera, one of the most desirable compact M-mount rangefinder bodies of the film era.

Serial Number: 1046579

The camera remains in beautiful condition overall. According to the seller’s inspection, there are slight scuffs from light use. A grip is included, and there is some trace where tape has been removed. Please review the listing photos carefully for the most accurate representation of the cosmetic condition.

Optical Condition
The optics are in beautiful condition. There is no noticeable large dust, fog, fungus, scratches, or separation.

Functional Condition
The camera has been checked and works properly.

Included Accessories
- Grip (with trace where tape has been removed)
- Body cap

Only the items shown in the photos are included in this sale.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a highly desirable Minolta CLE body, admired for its compact M-mount design, advanced exposure system, and enduring appeal among rangefinder enthusiasts."

Seller's Story

Hello! We sincerely thank you for visiting our store. We deliver rare and exciting items, primarily Japanese antiques, right to your doorstep. While this platform is just getting started, we've been exporting antiques and vintage goods since 2019. We aim to be a store that brings you joy, so please feel free to contact us anytime with your wishes or requests! We look forward to meeting you. Best regards.

"The Minolta CLE is widely regarded as one of the most sophisticated compact M-mount rangefinder cameras of the film era. Introduced in 1980, it combined the classical appeal of manual-focus rangefinder photography with a level of electronic sophistication that was exceptionally advanced for its time. With Leica M-mount compatibility, TTL metering, and aperture-priority automatic exposure, the CLE holds a very special place in rangefinder history and remains highly respected by both collectors and active photographers.

What makes the CLE especially appealing is the balance it offers between compactness, practicality, and technical ambition. It carries forward the compact spirit of the earlier Leica CL concept, but develops it into a more modern and capable camera with more advanced automation and a broader photographic versatility. This gives the CLE a particularly strong identity: it is not merely a compact M-mount body, but a thoughtfully evolved rangefinder designed for serious everyday use.

Because of its combination of Leica-mount heritage, advanced exposure system, and compact handling, the Minolta CLE continues to attract lasting interest in today’s market. It is valued not only as an important late-era rangefinder camera, but also as a highly usable photographic tool for those who appreciate small mechanical-electronic bodies with true M-mount character.

Offered here is a beautiful Minolta CLE 35mm rangefinder film camera, one of the most desirable compact M-mount rangefinder bodies of the film era.

Serial Number: 1046579

The camera remains in beautiful condition overall. According to the seller’s inspection, there are slight scuffs from light use. A grip is included, and there is some trace where tape has been removed. Please review the listing photos carefully for the most accurate representation of the cosmetic condition.

Optical Condition
The optics are in beautiful condition. There is no noticeable large dust, fog, fungus, scratches, or separation.

Functional Condition
The camera has been checked and works properly.

Included Accessories
- Grip (with trace where tape has been removed)
- Body cap

Only the items shown in the photos are included in this sale.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a highly desirable Minolta CLE body, admired for its compact M-mount design, advanced exposure system, and enduring appeal among rangefinder enthusiasts."

Seller's Story

Hello! We sincerely thank you for visiting our store. We deliver rare and exciting items, primarily Japanese antiques, right to your doorstep. While this platform is just getting started, we've been exporting antiques and vintage goods since 2019. We aim to be a store that brings you joy, so please feel free to contact us anytime with your wishes or requests! We look forward to meeting you. Best regards.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Brand
Minolta
Model/type nr
CLE + grip
Physical condition
Mint
Functional condition
Tested and working
Lens Mount Type
Leica M
Film type
35mm
Serial number
1046678
Estimated period
1970-1980
JapanVerified
pro

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