Minolta Semi Minolta Late Model with MARBLE Shutter 5,6/75mm 120 / medium format camera

06
days
16
hours
36
minutes
39
seconds
Current bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Edwin Molenaar
Expert
Selected by Edwin Molenaar

Over 30 years experience in photography and camera building.

Estimate  € 160 - € 200
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IT
€1

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Minolta Semi Minolta Late Model with MARBLE shutter, a 6x4.5cm folding camera for 120 film, in good physical condition and tested and working; circa 1937–1940.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

For European collectors who celebrate authentic heritage, high-quality vintage optics, and the fascinating lineage of early industrial design, this Late-1930s Semi Minolta folding camera is an absolute treasure. Emerging from the golden dawn of Japanese camera manufacturing, this elegant medium-format camera showcases the exceptional engineering capability of Chiyoda Kogaku (Minolta). Featuring the beautiful, flowing pre-war "Minolta" script engraved directly onto the leatherette body and its matching case, it radiates an undeniable historical romance.

This remarkable piece represents a historically significant factory variation: it is officially configured with the Coronar Anastigmat Nippon 75mm f/5.6 lens and a fully mechanical Marble leaf shutter produced by Ikko Sha. This collaboration highlights a pivotal period when Minolta carefully selected premium components to craft elite instruments, delivering a painterly optical signature with beautiful background transitions and a rich depth of tone that modern digital equipment can never replicate.

Using this camera inspires a profound sense of tranquility and artistic connection. The tactile feedback of opening the bed, manually selecting your shutter settings on the classic dial, and hearing the crisp, elegant snap of the shutter transforms every exposure into a meaningful creative ritual. Protected by its original, gracefully aged leather case, this rare pre-war Japanese treasure is ready to bring timeless prestige, soul, and historical sophistication to your fine collection.

* Release Date: Circa 1937–1940
* Manufacturer: Chiyoda Kogaku Seiko (Minolta) / Shutter and Lens by Ikko Sha
* Product Name: Semi Minolta (Late Model with MARBLE Shutter)
* Size: Approx. 117 mm (W) x 82 mm (H) x 40 mm (D) [Folded, Body only]
* Weight: Approx. 460 g [Body and lens only]
* Type: 6x4.5cm folding medium format camera (120 roll film)
* Lens Mount: Fixed (Integrated folding system)
* Shutter: MARBLE mechanical leaf shutter (by Ikko Sha)
* Shutterspeed: T, B, 1/25, 1/50, 1/100 sec
* Film Advance: Knob wind system
* Operation: All functions tested and operational. Shutter speeds change appropriately at each setting; however, mechanical accuracy has not been certified.
* Viewfinder Condition: Clear
* Body Appearance: Displays authentic pre-war signs of time, including small surface scratches, minor dents, light oxidation, and wear on the original leatherette.There are no light leaks in the bellows.The back cover of the film chamber is a bit stiff and slightly difficult to open.
* Lens: Coronar Anastigmat Nippon 75mm f/5.6
* Lens Condition: Minor dust, faint haze, surface cleaning marks, and light spots consistent with its vintage age.
* Accessories: Original vintage Minolta leather case (displays natural vintage patina and wear)

Disclaimer: Please note that the product description above was generated with AI assistance. As there may be potential inaccuracies, please refer to the provided photos and the official manufacturer's website for the most accurate and definitive information.

Shipping Policy: We will ship your order with a tracking number within 1-3 business days after payment confirmation.

Important Notice: Shipping Suspension to Specific Regions
Due to the worsening situation in the Middle East and its impact on international flight schedules, we have decided to suspend shipping to the following countries until further notice.
Target Countries:
Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Iran, Israel, Syria, North Korea, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Libya
If an order is placed for any of these destinations, we will have to cancel it.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Terms and Conditions
1. What is included in this item is only what is shown in the picture. Please note that batteries and other items not shown in the picture are not included.
2. Import duties, taxes, VAT (Value Added Tax), and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These costs are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.
3. When purchasing a lens, please note that any issues arising from the use of third-party mount adapters are not covered under warranty.
4. Condition ratings and descriptions are based on the seller's subjective evaluation. Since the perception of an item's condition can vary between individuals, please carefully review all provided photos and place your bid based on your own judgment and responsibility.
5. In the event that you are not satisfied with the item or find any discrepancies with the description, the item must be returned to the seller first. A refund will be processed immediately upon the safe return of the item. All return policies are governed by Catawiki's terms and conditions.
6. By placing a bid, you are deemed to have read and agreed to all the terms and conditions stated above.


Seller's Story

Based in Japan, I have been operating as an online seller specializing in used cameras and rare vintage items for over three years. At my shop, "ShakeShop," my mission is more than just selling products; it is to deliver Japan's outstanding technological heritage to enthusiasts around the world. My primary lineup features film cameras and lenses from Japan's golden era, such as Nikon and Canon. These items are carefully selected and sourced one by one directly from a reliable network and collectors within Japan. My expertise lies in evaluating the condition of precision optical instruments. I particularly specialize in classic rangefinder cameras, such as Leotax. My passion stems from "delivering an experience that exceeds my customers' expectations." I am committed to thorough inspections, detailed descriptions, and the meticulous packaging unique to Japan, ensuring that you can shop with peace of mind even from a distance. Please enjoy the wonderful world of Japanese vintage through my auctions.

For European collectors who celebrate authentic heritage, high-quality vintage optics, and the fascinating lineage of early industrial design, this Late-1930s Semi Minolta folding camera is an absolute treasure. Emerging from the golden dawn of Japanese camera manufacturing, this elegant medium-format camera showcases the exceptional engineering capability of Chiyoda Kogaku (Minolta). Featuring the beautiful, flowing pre-war "Minolta" script engraved directly onto the leatherette body and its matching case, it radiates an undeniable historical romance.

This remarkable piece represents a historically significant factory variation: it is officially configured with the Coronar Anastigmat Nippon 75mm f/5.6 lens and a fully mechanical Marble leaf shutter produced by Ikko Sha. This collaboration highlights a pivotal period when Minolta carefully selected premium components to craft elite instruments, delivering a painterly optical signature with beautiful background transitions and a rich depth of tone that modern digital equipment can never replicate.

Using this camera inspires a profound sense of tranquility and artistic connection. The tactile feedback of opening the bed, manually selecting your shutter settings on the classic dial, and hearing the crisp, elegant snap of the shutter transforms every exposure into a meaningful creative ritual. Protected by its original, gracefully aged leather case, this rare pre-war Japanese treasure is ready to bring timeless prestige, soul, and historical sophistication to your fine collection.

* Release Date: Circa 1937–1940
* Manufacturer: Chiyoda Kogaku Seiko (Minolta) / Shutter and Lens by Ikko Sha
* Product Name: Semi Minolta (Late Model with MARBLE Shutter)
* Size: Approx. 117 mm (W) x 82 mm (H) x 40 mm (D) [Folded, Body only]
* Weight: Approx. 460 g [Body and lens only]
* Type: 6x4.5cm folding medium format camera (120 roll film)
* Lens Mount: Fixed (Integrated folding system)
* Shutter: MARBLE mechanical leaf shutter (by Ikko Sha)
* Shutterspeed: T, B, 1/25, 1/50, 1/100 sec
* Film Advance: Knob wind system
* Operation: All functions tested and operational. Shutter speeds change appropriately at each setting; however, mechanical accuracy has not been certified.
* Viewfinder Condition: Clear
* Body Appearance: Displays authentic pre-war signs of time, including small surface scratches, minor dents, light oxidation, and wear on the original leatherette.There are no light leaks in the bellows.The back cover of the film chamber is a bit stiff and slightly difficult to open.
* Lens: Coronar Anastigmat Nippon 75mm f/5.6
* Lens Condition: Minor dust, faint haze, surface cleaning marks, and light spots consistent with its vintage age.
* Accessories: Original vintage Minolta leather case (displays natural vintage patina and wear)

Disclaimer: Please note that the product description above was generated with AI assistance. As there may be potential inaccuracies, please refer to the provided photos and the official manufacturer's website for the most accurate and definitive information.

Shipping Policy: We will ship your order with a tracking number within 1-3 business days after payment confirmation.

Important Notice: Shipping Suspension to Specific Regions
Due to the worsening situation in the Middle East and its impact on international flight schedules, we have decided to suspend shipping to the following countries until further notice.
Target Countries:
Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Iran, Israel, Syria, North Korea, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Libya
If an order is placed for any of these destinations, we will have to cancel it.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Terms and Conditions
1. What is included in this item is only what is shown in the picture. Please note that batteries and other items not shown in the picture are not included.
2. Import duties, taxes, VAT (Value Added Tax), and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These costs are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.
3. When purchasing a lens, please note that any issues arising from the use of third-party mount adapters are not covered under warranty.
4. Condition ratings and descriptions are based on the seller's subjective evaluation. Since the perception of an item's condition can vary between individuals, please carefully review all provided photos and place your bid based on your own judgment and responsibility.
5. In the event that you are not satisfied with the item or find any discrepancies with the description, the item must be returned to the seller first. A refund will be processed immediately upon the safe return of the item. All return policies are governed by Catawiki's terms and conditions.
6. By placing a bid, you are deemed to have read and agreed to all the terms and conditions stated above.


Seller's Story

Based in Japan, I have been operating as an online seller specializing in used cameras and rare vintage items for over three years. At my shop, "ShakeShop," my mission is more than just selling products; it is to deliver Japan's outstanding technological heritage to enthusiasts around the world. My primary lineup features film cameras and lenses from Japan's golden era, such as Nikon and Canon. These items are carefully selected and sourced one by one directly from a reliable network and collectors within Japan. My expertise lies in evaluating the condition of precision optical instruments. I particularly specialize in classic rangefinder cameras, such as Leotax. My passion stems from "delivering an experience that exceeds my customers' expectations." I am committed to thorough inspections, detailed descriptions, and the meticulous packaging unique to Japan, ensuring that you can shop with peace of mind even from a distance. Please enjoy the wonderful world of Japanese vintage through my auctions.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Brand
Minolta
Model/type nr
Semi Minolta Late Model with MARBLE Shutter 5,6/75mm
Physical condition
Good
Functional condition
Tested and working
Film type
120 / 220
Estimated period
1930-1940
Sold by
JapanVerified
409
Objects sold
99.31%
Privatetop

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