The Minolta Uniomat is a rangefinder camera. It was introduced in 1960 and is the first model, of three, in the Uniomat series. The model was produced in a factory in Japan. The 35mm photo camera was available on the market in the USA under the name “Ansco Anscoset“.
The 35mm camera comes with a fixed “Minolta Rokkor” lens. The focal length is 45mm and the largest aperture of the lens is f/2.8. The lens is focused by hand. The coupled rangefinder system helps with this. There is a mirrored rangefinder field in the viewfinder. By turning the focus ring, the two viewfinder images have to be brought into alignment. The closest focusing distance is 91 cm / 3 feet.
The Minolta Uniomat 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 for 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. Additionally, there is a self-timer. There is also a connection for a cable release.
An external flash unit can be connected to the PC flash socket. The flash can be attached to the hot shoe on the top of the housing.
No batteries are needed to take pictures. The light meter also works without batteries, but may lose accuracy over the years or may not work at all. Repairing the light meter when it stops working is very difficult.
The camera’s body weighs 710 grams. The size dimensions are given as 13.7 by 8 by 7.3 cm.
Films for the Minolta Uniomat
The Minolta Uniomat takes its pictures on 35mm film. 35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. For color images with the rangefinder camera, there is for example the Fujifilm Superia 400*. One option for great black and white images is the Ilford FP4 Plus*. According to various reviews of the films, they are good for everyday shooting and produce solid results.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Minolta 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 |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 64,76 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 10 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 52,29 Euro (56.28 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 67,77 Euro (72.52 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 65,48 Euro (70.36 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Uniomat
How do I focus the Minolta Uniomat?
The Minolta Uniomat uses a coupled rangefinder system. You manually focus the 45mm Rokkor lens by aligning two images in the viewfinder until they merge. This ensures sharp focus.
Does this camera need batteries?
No, the Minolta Uniomat doesn't require batteries for operation. The built-in selenium light meter works without a battery but may lose accuracy over time.
What kind of film does the 35mm camera use?
The Minolta Uniomat uses standard 35mm film. You can use various ISO speeds, from 10 to 1600, with both color and black and white film types.
How do I take a long exposure photo with the device?
The camera has a bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter stays open as long as you hold down the shutter release button. A tripod is recommended for sharp images.
Can I use a flash with my camera?
Yes, you can use an external flash. The camera has a PC flash socket and a hot shoe mount on top for attaching and triggering external flash units.