Monday, January 28, 2013

The User's Review: Minolta Hi-Matic AF 35 mm Camera, Released in 1979

Hi-Matic AF is the first model with auto-focus in Minolta Hi-Matic series. When Hi-Matic AF was in my hands, it reminded me Konica C35 AF, the first mass-produced AF camera.

Minolta Hi-Matic AF comes with a multi-coated Minolta Rokker 38 mm f2.8 lens and with ASA range of 25 - 400. The inboard flash has to be turned on manually. Other features include self-timer, focus lock, mental tripod socket and 2 AA batteries.

Like Konica C35 AF, Hi-Matic AF also takes 46 mm filter. On both models, the light eyes will be covered by the filter used. Therefore, the user does not need to worry about the auto-metering when using a filter. Both models have a dedicated lens cap. I should call them 'front masks' because they cover not only the lenses, but also the windows of rangefinders and focusing systems. The front mask on Minolta Hi-Matic AF even protects the shutter button from accident release. A good design is that the Hi-Matic AF bottom case has a hanging to keep the mask from missing. 

Unlike Konica C35 AF, Hi-Matic AF can't accept a shutter release cable, but its self-timer may be more helpful in daily use.














  

2 comments:

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  2. Thanks. The question is about the main difference between Minolta Hi-Matic AF and AF2. Actually, there is a third one, Minolta Hi-Matic AF2-M. The M means 'motorized film advance'. The main difference between the AF and AF2 is the focus lock switch on AF and the focus-hold function on AF2, as I know.

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