Rangefinder35mm
beginnerintermediate
Discontinued
Yashica Electro 35 GSN / GTN
1973-1987
Low light photography
Format
35mm
Shutter
1/500 (electronically controlled)
Max speed
Metering
TTL
Battery req.
Weight
720g
Best For
- Low light photography
- Street photography
- Affordable rangefinder experience
- Vintage aesthetic
Features
- 45mm f/1.7 Color Yashinon DX lens
- Aperture-priority AE
- Coupled rangefinder
- Over/under exposure warnings
- Hot shoe
- Self-timer
Limitations
- Heavy and bulky
- Battery required for shutter
- No manual shutter speeds
- Flash sync speed slow
Common Issues to Check
- Pad of Death (light seal material blocks contacts)
- Battery conversion needed
- Rangefinder misalignment
- Sticky shutter
- Lens fungus
Buying Guide
The GSN (silver) and GTN (black) are the most refined Electro 35 variants. Fast f/1.7 lens excellent for low light. Check for 'Pad of Death' - foam that blocks battery contacts (common, fixable). Test aperture-priority at various settings. Battery conversion may be needed - original mercury cells discontinued. Heavy but capable.
Pricing
Typical Range£60 - £140
Excellent Condition~£180
GTN (black) slightly more desirable; very affordable
Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.
Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error