Aires 35-IIA - Classic Japanese Rangefinder with Q Coral Optics Step into the era of precision Japanese rangefinders with the Aires 35-IIA. Produced in the mid-1950s by Aires Camera Industries in Tokyo, this model is a robust example of the high-quality mechanical cameras that emerged from Japan to challenge European dominance. The 35-IIA is admired for its solid construction and exceptionally bright viewfinder. This specific unit features the reliable Q Coral 45mm f/2.8 lens and a Seikosha-MX shutter, making it a definitive piece of Tokyo's post-war photographic history. Key Benefits Compact Rangefinder Design: Offers a bright, coupled rangefinder for accurate manual focusing in a sleek, all-metal body. Mechanical Reliability: Equipped with the Seikosha-MX leaf shutter, known for its quiet operation and consistent performance. Optical Character: The Q Coral 45mm lens is a classic 4-element design, providing sharp images with the distinctive vintage "look" prized by analog enthusiasts. Features Camera Type: 35mm Coupled Rangefinder Model Identification: Aires 35-IIA (Engraved on top plate) Serial Number: No. 542336 Lens: Aires Q Coral 45mm f/2.8 (Serial: No. 542116) Shutter: Seikosha-MX Shutter Speeds: 1 sec – 1/500 sec, plus Bulb (B) Focusing: Manual front-cell focusing via coupled rangefinder Build: Satin chrome finish with black textured leatherette Condition Rated: 3/5 Cosmetic: The camera shows honest signs of age and use. Technical Detail: The chrome top plate exhibits visible surface scratches, particularly around the shutter release and film advance knobs. There is also light pitting/oxidation visible on the metal surfaces and the paint inlay of the "Aires 35-IIA" engraving has largely faded or worn away. The leatherette remains intact. Optics: The 45mm Q Coral lens is visually clear. As with most 1950s optics, minor internal dust may be present. The viewfinder and rangefinder patch are functional. Mechanical: The shutter fires across the speeds and the mechanical controls move as intended. Note: This camera is sold as a professional collectible/display item. While mechanically functional, it has not been film-tested for light-tightness or shutter speed accuracy. Accessories: Included is the original brown leather carrying case. The case shows heavy wear and the leather strap is dry, cracked, and very fragile. What's Included Aires 35-IIA Rangefinder Camera Original Brown Leather Ever-Ready Case Why This Product? The Aires 35-IIA is a testament to the "over-engineered" philosophy of 1950s Japanese camera design. While it shows some cosmetic patina, this unit remains a mechanically sound example of a relatively rare rangefinder. With its sharp Q Coral lens and tactile metal construction, it is a rewarding addition for any collector focusing on the evolution of the Japanese 35mm rangefinder. Keywords: Aires 35-IIA, Q Coral, Seikosha-MX, Rangefinder, 35mm Film, Vintage Japanese Camera, Analog Photography, Tokyo, 1950s, Rare Rangefinder.