The Minolta Autopak 800 is a rangefinder camera. It was introduced in 1969 and built by the Japanese company Minolta.
The 126 camera comes with a fixed lens. The manufacturer’s name for the lens is Rokkor 1:2.8/38mm. The focal length of the lens is 38mm and the widest aperture is f/2.8. The lens is focused manually using the rangefinder.
The Minolta Autopak 800 has a built-in CdS exposure meter. The aperture and exposure time are set automatically by the camera. Here, the exposure time is fixed at 1/90 second. If a flash cube is used, the exposure time is extended to 1/45 second.
A special feature of the Minolta Autopak 800 is the automatic film transport. Here, a clockwork motor is wound up, which automatically transports the film after each exposure. Therefore, no batteries are needed for the film transport. The camera can take up to twelve shots in a row before the film needs to be changed.
Films for the Minolta Autopak 800
On this front, unfortunately, things look very bad today. The Autopak 800 requires 126-film cassettes. This film format was introduced by 60s. However, it could never reach the popularity of other film formats, like the 35mm format. Therefore, today there is no film manufacturer that produces fresh material for this format. Most of the film material that you might still find has therefore expired a long time ago and can no longer be compared to the fresh material.
On the bottom of the Minolta Autopak 800 there is a thread for a tripod. There is also a connection for a cable release. This makes it possible to take blur-free pictures or to release the shutter from a distance. A self-timer is not found on this model.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 126 |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 38 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/90 second, 1/45 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Connection for flash cubes |
| Flash sync speed | 1/40 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Country of production | Japan |
FAQ about the Minolta Autopak 800
How do I focus the lens on my Minolta Autopak 800?
The Minolta Autopak 800 uses a rangefinder for focusing. You manually adjust the focus ring on the lens until the image in the viewfinder is sharp. This is done before you take a picture.
Does this camera have automatic settings?
Yes, the Minolta Autopak 800 has an automatic exposure system. It uses a CdS light meter to determine the correct aperture and shutter speed, setting it automatically to 1/90th of a second, or 1/45th with flash.
What type of film does the 126 camera use?
The Minolta Autopak 800 uses 126 film cartridges. Unfortunately, this film format is no longer produced, so finding fresh film can be difficult.
How many pictures can I take before needing to change the film?
You can shoot twelve pictures on one 126 film cartridge with this camera before you need to reload a new cartridge with film.
Can I use a tripod with this snapshot camera?
Yes, the Minolta Autopak 800 has a tripod mount on the bottom of the camera body. This allows you to use a tripod for steady shots.