Semi Minolta (I) and II
The Semi Minolta is a series of Japanese 4.5×6 folders made by Molta then by Chiyoda Kōgaku (the predecessors of Minolta). They were inspired by the Ikonta A.
The Semi Minolta I and Semi Minolta II are prewar models with a folding optical finder.
The Auto Semi Minolta, released in 1937, has a coupled rangefinder contained in a top housing. The Auto Semi Minolta has a focusing system inspired by the Welta Weltur and an exposure counter inspired by the Plaubel Roll-Op models.
The Semi Minolta III is a postwar version of the I and II. It exists in three variants called A, B and C, with very little difference between the three.
The Semi Minolta P is a version with a tubular finder, released in 1951 at a time when the folding finders were beginning to be old-fashioned. It was the last folding camera made by Chiyoda.
Printed bibliography
- Francesch, Dominique and Jean-Paul. Histoire de l'appareil photographique Minolta de 1929 à 1985. Paris: Dessain et Tolra, 1985. ISBN 2-249-27685-4.
- McKeown, James M. and Joan C. McKeown's Price Guide to Antique and Classic Cameras, 12th Edition, 2005-2006. USA, Centennial Photo Service, 2004. ISBN 0-931838-40-1 (hardcover). ISBN 0-931838-41-X (softcover). Pp. 672–3.
- Lewis, Gordon, ed. The History of the Japanese Camera. Rochester, N.Y.: George Eastman House, International Museum of Photography & Film, 1991. ISBN 0-935398-17-1 (paper), 0-935398-16-3 (hard).
Links
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In Japanese:
