Minolta X-700 MPS
Name/Title
Minolta X-700 MPSEntry/Object ID
289Tags
IconicDescription
The Minolta X-700 was the flagship of the manual-focus X-series and is widely considered one of the finest consumer SLRs ever built. It was named the European "Camera of the Year" in 1981, largely due to the MPS (Minolta Program System) badge on the front. This system allowed for fully programmed automation, where the camera’s microcomputer selected both the shutter speed and aperture for a perfect exposure—effectively turning a professional-grade SLR into a high-end point-and-shoot. Based on the serial number starting with "3," this unit was likely manufactured during the latter half of the camera's long production run, potentially at Minolta's facilities in China. It features the famous Minolta "Acute Matte" focusing screen, which remains one of the brightest and easiest-to-focus screens in the analog world. The camera also pioneered TTL (Through-The-Lens) flash metering, making it a favorite for macro and studio photographers. The lens attached is an Underground MC Auto Zoom 28-100mm f/3.5-5.5, an interesting third-party versatile zoom from the era. Note that to use the camera's full "Program" mode, you typically need a Minolta MD-series lens set to its minimum aperture (the green f/22). While this Underground lens is an "MC" mount, it will work perfectly in Aperture Priority or Full Manual modes, but the "P" mode may not be fully functional.Category
Camera, SLR, 35mm Film
Media Type