The Minolta V2 is a camera from Minolta from the 1950s. It is a rangefinder camera. The model was followed by the Minolta V3.
The lens of the 35mm camera is fixed. The name of the lens is “Rokkor”. The focal length is 45 mm. The largest aperture is f/2. The 35mm photo camera has no autofocus. Therefore, you have to focus by hand. The correct distance to the subject can be determined by the Minolta V2’s rangefinder. The closest focusing distance is 80 cm with this lens.
The correct exposure cannot be measured by the camera, as it does not have a light meter. Aperture and shutter speed are set manually. Aperture values from f/2 to f/22 are available for selection, and values from 1/2000 second to 1 second are possible for the shutter speed.
At 1/2000 second, only aperture values from f/8 to f/22 can be used. At 1/1000 second, f/4 to f/22 is possible. At the other shutter speeds of the “Optiper-Citizen-HS M-10 shutter” all apertures can be used.
The 35mm camera also comes with a Bulb setting option for long exposure shots. The use of a flash is possible via the PC flash socket. An external flash can be attached to the accessory shoe.
The Minolta V2 can be released by self-timer or with an additional cable release. A thread for a tripod is available. According to the manual, the camera weighs 780 grams and measures 13.7 x 8.5 x 7.4 cm. Electricity is not needed for taking pictures, it works completely mechanically. Of course, the film transport is also mechanical.
Films for the Minolta V2
What kind of films are needed for the Minolta V2? The camera is designed for 35mm films. 35mm film is still readily available today and is developed by most photo labs. Possible films for the Japanese rangefinder camera are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color photos and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for B&W images. Approximately 36 images fit on one roll. A counter on the camera provides information about the photos taken.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Rokkor |
| Focal length | 45 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2 |
| Minimum focus distance | 80 cm / 2.624 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Filter thread | 46 mm |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| 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 8,5 x 7,4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.39 x 3.35 x 2.91 inches |
| Weight | 780 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 124,40 Euro 2222021151029108220551356145 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of October 27, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 69,55 Euro (74.69 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 69,33 Euro (74.69 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 161,38 Euro (174.27 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta V2
What type of camera is the Minolta V2, and what are its key features?
The Minolta V2 is a rangefinder camera from the 1950s, featuring a fixed 45mm Rokkor lens and manual focus. It's a completely mechanical camera, requiring no batteries for operation.
Does this 35mm camera offer automatic exposure settings?
No, the Minolta V2 lacks a built-in light meter. Both aperture and shutter speed need to be manually adjusted by the photographer based on lighting conditions.
What is the range of shutter speeds and apertures available on the Minolta V2?
The shutter speed ranges from 1/2000th of a second to 1 second, with aperture settings from f/2 to f/22. However, at faster shutter speeds, the usable aperture range is limited.
How is the focusing done on the Minolta V2, and what is the closest focusing distance?
Focusing is done manually using the rangefinder. The minimum focusing distance with the 45mm lens is 80cm.
Can I use flash with the Minolta V2?
Yes, the Minolta V2 has a PC flash sync socket and a hot shoe for connecting external flash units, enabling flash photography.