Camera · SLR
Minolta XE-7 / XE-1
1974-1977
Discontinued35mmIntermediateAdvanced
Smooth operation enthusiasts
- Format
- 35mm
- Mount
- MINOLTA SR
- Metering
- Built-in
- Shutter
- 1/1000 (manual and auto); mechanical X (1/90s) and B
- Battery
- SR44 x2 (or one 3 V cell)
- Weight
- 715g
Battery req.
Max speed
Best for
- Smooth operation enthusiasts
- Portrait and studio work
- Appreciating fine mechanics
Features
- Aperture-priority auto exposure
- Electronically controlled vertical metal-blade shutter developed with Copal
- Mechanical X (1/90s) and B without batteries
- Self-timer
- Multiple exposure lever
- Body shared with the Leica R3
Limitations
- Electronic dependence (except X 1/90s and B)
- Only aperture-priority (no shutter priority)
Common issues to check
- Electronics ageing (test all speeds)
- Sticky shutter at slow speeds
- Light meter drift
- Viewfinder dust
Buying guide
The XE-7 / XE-1 (1974) came out of Minolta's patent and development agreement with Leitz: the vertical metal-blade shutter was developed with Copal, and the Leica R3 (1976) is its German-market sibling. Test slow shutter speeds carefully and check the meter.
Pricing
- Typical range
- £80 - £180
- Excellent condition
- ~£250
Indicative, no dated source.
Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.
Specifications
| Format | 35mm |
| Years produced | 1974-1977 |
| Mount | MINOLTA SR |
| Shutter type | Focal Plane |
| Shutter speeds | 4s - 1/1000 (manual and auto); mechanical X (1/90s) and B |
| Flash sync | 1/90 |
| Metering | Center Weighted |
| Battery required | Yes (SR44 x2 (or one 3 V cell)) |
| Weight | 715g |
| Dimensions | 148 x 97 x 61mm |