Minolta Autocord L-MX (1958)
I acquired this Minolta Autocord L-MX at an estate sale about a month ago...I paid $75 for it with a stuck focus helicoid and a broken focus lever. Overall it was in marginal condition but I figrued at this price I would take a chance on it. I did some research and decided to repair it myself...nothing to lose in my mind. I ordered a new focus lever, and when it arrived I disassembled, cleaned, lubed and repaired the focus helicoid and focus lever.
I took it out after the repair and determined that the focus calibration was spot on. I also discovered that the light meter worked and it was still accurate. During disassembly it was clear that the leather skin was shot...I removed it completely and found a seller online that made replacement skins. I ordered one and it finally arrived this week. I figured red would be a good color to honor this wonderful survivor...the skin went on much easier than I expected and it turned out really nice...it just looks amazing now.
This is my 3rd Autocord...and my second L-MX. Based on the serial number this beauty was manufactured in 1958. I'm looking forward to running more film through this camera...I can see it getting a lot of use in the near future.
Minolta Autocord L-MX (1958)
I acquired this Minolta Autocord L-MX at an estate sale about a month ago...I paid $75 for it with a stuck focus helicoid and a broken focus lever. Overall it was in marginal condition but I figrued at this price I would take a chance on it. I did some research and decided to repair it myself...nothing to lose in my mind. I ordered a new focus lever, and when it arrived I disassembled, cleaned, lubed and repaired the focus helicoid and focus lever.
I took it out after the repair and determined that the focus calibration was spot on. I also discovered that the light meter worked and it was still accurate. During disassembly it was clear that the leather skin was shot...I removed it completely and found a seller online that made replacement skins. I ordered one and it finally arrived this week. I figured red would be a good color to honor this wonderful survivor...the skin went on much easier than I expected and it turned out really nice...it just looks amazing now.
This is my 3rd Autocord...and my second L-MX. Based on the serial number this beauty was manufactured in 1958. I'm looking forward to running more film through this camera...I can see it getting a lot of use in the near future.