SLR35mm
intermediateadvanced
Discontinued
Minolta XE-7 / XE-1
1974-1977
Smooth operation enthusiasts
Format
35mm
Shutter
1/1000
Max speed
Metering
TTL
Battery req.
Weight
610g
Best For
- Smooth operation enthusiasts
- Those wanting Leica build quality on budget
- Portrait and studio work
- Appreciating fine mechanics
Features
- Aperture-priority auto exposure
- Electronically-controlled Copal Leitz shutter
- Extremely smooth film advance
- Mechanical backup at 1/90s
- Self-timer
- Co-developed with Leitz
Limitations
- Electronic dependence (except 1/90s)
- Heavier than competitors
- Capacitor failures possible
- Only aperture-priority (no shutter priority)
Common Issues to Check
- Capacitor failure
- Sticky shutter at slow speeds
- Light meter drift
- Viewfinder dust
- Film advance smoothness degradation
Buying Guide
The XE-7 was co-developed with Leitz and shares its silky-smooth Copal Leitz shutter with the Leica R3. The film advance is legendary - many consider it the smoothest ever made. Test slow shutter speeds carefully. Check the meter. The XE-7 is for photographers who appreciate fine mechanical operation.
Pricing
Typical Range£80 - £180
Excellent Condition~£250
Undervalued compared to similar-quality cameras
Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.
Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error