The Ansco Anscoset is a rangefinder camera. It dates from the 1960s and was sold by the American company in the USA. The model was produced by Minolta in Japan. The model is based on the Minolta Uniomat.
The camera comes with a fixed lens. The lens is called “Ansco Rokkor”. The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and the focal length is 45 mm. The photo camera does not have an autofocus. It is focused manually. The correct distance to the subject can be determined through the Ansco Anscoset’s rangefinder. This involves superimposing two images in the viewfinder by turning the focus ring. The closest focusing distance is 91 cm / 3 feet.
The Ansco Anscoset has a built-in selenium exposure meter. It can be used with films from ISO 10 to ISO 1600. To shoot, you have to match two arrows in an indicator on the top of the camera by turning a ring around the lens.
For long exposures, there is a Bulb mode. In this mode, the film is exposed as long as the shutter button is pressed. For blur-free photos, you should mount the camera on a tripod. There is a 1/4-inch thread on the bottom. There is also a self-timer. There is also a port for a cable release.
An external flash can be connected to the PC flash socket. The flash can be attached to the hot shoe on the top of the body.
The camera weighs 710 grams. The dimensions are 13.7 x 8 x 7.3 cm. The Ansco Anscoset does not need power to take pictures. The exposure meter does not need electricity either. However, this can lose accuracy over the years and is very difficult to replace and repair. Any inaccuracies in the metering can be compensated for by adjusting the film speed setting.
Films for the Ansco Anscoset
The Ansco Anscoset requires 35mm film. 35mm films are still being manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. For color images, for example, there is Kodak Ultramax 400*. One option for black and white images is the Kodak T-Max 400*. Of course, you can also reach for films from other producers. The color film is developed using the C-41 process. The black and white film must be processed in a special developer. This development process is also offered by many professional photo labs.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Ansco Rokkor |
| Focal length | 45 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 91 cm / 2.9848 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1/8 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Selenium light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 10 to 1600 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 13,7 x 8 x 7,3 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.39 x 3.15 x 2.87 inches |
| Weight | 710 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Minolta |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 53,32 Euro 94835043845876358760 Estimate based on used prices of 4 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 5, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 60,33 Euro (64.94 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Ansco Anscoset
Is the Ansco Anscoset camera automatic, or do I need to adjust settings manually?
The Ansco Anscoset is a manual camera. You'll need to manually focus the lens using the rangefinder and adjust the aperture and shutter speed to get the correct exposure. It doesn't have autofocus.
What kind of lens does this vintage camera have?
It has a fixed Ansco Rokkor lens with a 45mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. This means it's a standard lens, good for general photography.
How does the light meter on the device work, and does it need batteries?
The Ansco Anscoset uses a selenium light meter, which doesn't require batteries. It measures the light and you match two arrows on the camera to set the correct exposure. Accuracy may decrease over time.
Can I use modern film with this old camera?
Yes, the Ansco Anscoset takes standard 35mm film, which is still widely available today. You can use both color and black and white films.
What is the closest I can focus on an object with this camera?
The minimum focusing distance, or close-focus limit, is 91cm (approximately 3 feet). You won't be able to get very close-up shots.