Minolta Hi-Matic S series

Hi-Matic S image by a n n ! c k (Image rights)

Hi-Matic SD image by mgtelu (Image rights)

The Minolta Hi-Matic S series consisted of four similar compact cameras from Minolta. They were the first Minolta compacts to include built-in flash, and they utilized zone focus. Unlike earlier Hi-matics, the S series used standard AA batteries to power the exposure meter and pop-up flash. The series began in 1978, but was regarded as obsolete a few years later when the Hi-Matic AF integrated autofocus into a body of the same size.

• Minolta Hi-Matic S (38mm/2.7 Minolta Rokkor lens)
• Minolta Hi-Matic SD (as above, but with date imprinting)
• Minolta Hi-Matic S2 (38mm/2.8 Minolta lens)
• Minolta Hi-Matic SD2 (as above, but with date imprinting)

Specifications for S and SD models

• Lens: Rokkor 38mm, f/2.7 (4 elements in 3 groups)
• Viewfindfinder: 0.5x magnification, shows 85 percent of frame, 5 zone focus marks, low light warning lamp.
• Exposure meter: CdS mounted at top of lens barrel.
• Film speed: Set by twisting ring around lens. ASA 25-400.
• Shutter: Seiko ESF-D between-the-lens programmed shutter
• Shutter speed: 1/4 to 1/450s
• Flash: Guide number 14 (metres, ASA 100), 27 (m, ASA 400)
• Dimensions: 130×84×55mm
• Weight: 368g

SD adds date imprinting, with area shown in viewfinder where it will appear on the negative.

Links

• Hi-Matic series on wikipedia.
• Hi-Matic S and Hi-Matic S2 in Sylvain Halgand's collection (in French).