The Minolta Mac-Dual Quartz Date, a straightforward 35mm snapshot camera from Minolta, impresses with its ease of use and practical functions. It was built in Japan in the 1980s.
Equipped with a fixed lens that offers a maximum aperture of f/3.5 or f/5.6 at 35 mm and 50 mm focal lengths, it enables sharp shots thanks to the integrated autofocus. You can switch between the two focal lengths with a button.
A light meter in combination with the automatic exposure ensures optimally exposed images by automatically adjusting the aperture and exposure time.
A built-in flash is available for shots in poor lighting conditions. Power is supplied by 4x AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
The special feature of the camera is the Quartz Date function. It can imprint the date on the image, which is particularly practical for archiving photos. Of course, you don’t have to use the function.
Films for the camera
The camera uses 35mm film, for which there is still a large selection of color and black and white films. Recommended options are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color images and the Kodak T-Max 100* for black and white images. Both films deliver excellent results in everyday use and in tests.
Color films are usually developed using the widely used C-41 process, which is offered by most photo labs. The camera’s negatives are 24 mm x 36 mm in size, so one film usually holds at least 36 photos. The built-in motor ensures automatic film transport after each image.
The Minolta Mac-Dual Quartz Date is no longer available new, but can be purchased used. Prices vary depending on the condition of the camera.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm, 50 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/150 second to 1/40 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | Yes |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | 4x AAA batteries |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 54,11 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 16 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 49,79 Euro (53.04 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 51,39 Euro (55.20 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Mac-Dual Quartz Date
What type of film does the Minolta Mac-Dual Quartz Date use?
It uses standard 35mm film, readily available in both color and black and white options. Kodak Ultramax 400 and Kodak T-Max 100 are recommended.
How does the camera handle lighting conditions?
The camera features an automatic exposure system that adjusts aperture and shutter speed. A built-in flash is also available for low-light situations.
Does this 35mm point-and-shoot camera offer any special features?
Yes, a unique feature is its quartz date function which imprints the date onto each photograph. This is helpful for organizing and archiving images.
What kind of lens does the Minolta Mac-Dual Quartz Date have?
It has a fixed dual-lens system offering 35mm and 50mm focal lengths, with maximum apertures of f/3.5 and f/5.6 respectively. You can switch between the two focal lengths with a button.
Where was this easy-to-use snapshot camera manufactured?
The Minolta Mac-Dual Quartz Date was manufactured in Japan during the 1980s.