The Minolta X-1 is an SLR camera. It was Minolta’s first model with an electronic shutter. It was introduced at the Photokina in 1972. A year later, it was produced under this name in Japan and sold to photographers. From 1974, it was available as the XM in Europe and the XK in North America.
The lenses of the photo camera are interchangeable. It comes with a Minolta SR bayonet. Mostly you meet the camera with the Minolta MC Rokkor 50mm f/1.7. You have to focus the lens manually.
The viewfinder attachment can also be changed on the Minolta X-1. The AE viewfinder has the ability to meter exposure. It is designed for films from ISO 12 to ISO 6400. On the one hand, you can take the readings manually. On the other hand, there is an automatic. Here you set the aperture and the camera automatically selects the shutter speed.
The shortest exposure time of the electronic shutter is 1/1000 second. Mechanically, 1/100 second and Bulb mode are usable. In Bulb mode, the shutter is opened as long as the shutter button is held down. The 1/100 second is also the flash sync speed. An external flash can be connected to the PC flash socket. The 35mm camera can be triggered by self-timer or with an additional cable release. There is a thread for a tripod on the bottom.
The camera body weighs 670 grams. The dimensions are 14.75 x 8.4 x 4.8 cm. Power is supplied by two 1.5 V silver oxide batteries, for example Mallory MS-76 or Eveready S-76.
Films for the Minolta X-1
According to the instruction manual, the Minolta X-1 is designed for 35mm film. These films are still being made and can be bought online. The film must be wound manually after each photo. There is a quick release lever for this purpose. The crank is used to wind the film back into the cartridge at the end.
The Kodak Gold 200* is a possible color film for the Minolta X-1, while black and white images are possible with the Kodak T-Max 400*. According to reviews, both films deliver solid results and are suitable for a wide range of applications. Of course, you can also reach for films from other manufacturers.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta SR mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 to 16 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 6400 |
| Exposure modes | Aperture priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | -0,5 EV - +3,5 EV |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/100 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x 1.5 V silver oxide batteries |
| Size | 14,75 x 8,4 x 4,8 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.81 x 3.31 x 1.89 inches |
| Weight | 670 Grams |
| Names in other markets | Europe: Minolta XM, USA: Minolta XK |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 93,90 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 99 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 349,11 Euro (377.76 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 330,46 Euro (357.19 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 152,67 Euro (164.52 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta X-1
What type of shutter does the Minolta X-1 utilize, and what are its speed capabilities?
The Minolta X-1 features an electronic shutter with a fastest speed of 1/1000th of a second. It also offers a mechanical 1/100th of a second and a bulb mode for longer exposures.
How is the lens attached to this SLR camera, and what is a common lens found with it?
The camera uses a Minolta SR bayonet mount for interchangeable lenses. It's frequently seen paired with the Minolta MC Rokkor 50mm f/1.7 lens.
Does the Minolta X-1 offer any automatic exposure options, or is it purely manual?
While manual operation is possible, the camera's AE finder allows for automatic exposure. You set the aperture, and the camera selects the appropriate shutter speed.
What kind of film does this 35mm camera use, and how is the film advanced?
The Minolta X-1 uses standard 35mm film. Film advancement is manual, requiring the photographer to advance the film after each shot using a rapid wind lever.
What are the physical dimensions and weight of the Minolta X-1?
The camera weighs 670 grams and has dimensions of 14.75 x 8.4 x 4.8 cm.