Leica Minilux (1995–2006)

Name: Leica Minilux
Brand: Leica
Availability: InStock

A titanium-clad 35mm compact camera with a Leica Summarit 40mm f/2.4 lens, made in Japan.

Overview

The Leica Minilux is a 35mm compact film camera introduced in 1995 and produced until 2006. It was designed as a luxury point-and-shoot with a titanium exterior, specifically aimed at professionals and enthusiasts. Leica developed the lens and lens cover, while the internal components and camera body were manufactured in Japan. It features a fixed Summarit 40mm f/2.4 lens and offers shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/400 second, plus Bulb mode. Focus is automatic with 180 steps or manual via a distance scale, and it accepts optional data imprinting through an accessory databack.

Specifications

Film Format	35mm
Lens	Summarit 40mm f/2.4
Shutter Speed Range	1 sec to 1/400 sec, plus Bulb mode
Focus	Automatic (180 steps), manual scale
ISO Range	25–5000 in 1/3 steps
Minimum Focus Distance	0.71 m (2 ft 4 in)
Power Supply	CR123A lithium battery
Dimensions	124 × 67 × 38 mm
Weight	Approx. 300 g (10.6 oz) without battery; 330 g total (Camera-wiki)

Design

The Minilux features a titanium-clad body and a double Gauss design for its Summarit 40mm f/2.4 lens. Leica designed the lens and lens cover, while the internal parts and body were made in Japan.

Context

The Minilux was the first of four luxury titanium-clad point-and-shoot cameras from Leica, positioned as a premium compact for professionals and enthusiasts. It shares design and market positioning similarities with cameras like the Nikon 35Ti, later referenced as a peer by reviewers discussing the Fuji X100.

Market

The Minilux has developed a niche following, with some units commanding high prices—examples like the Minilux Zoom have sold for $1,250. Common issues include "E01" and "E02" error codes, often related to shutter mechanisms, though repair services exist through specialized technicians.