Minox C with 15mm f/3.5 Complan Lens

Minox C - Good Condition | Miniature Camera | The Iconic "Spy Camera" with 15mm f/3.5 Complan Lens

The Minox C (S/N: Not specified) is a masterpiece of subminiature engineering and an enduring icon of Cold War espionage. Introduced in 1969 as the successor to the legendary Minox B, the "C" model was the first to incorporate electronic shutter control, making it the most advanced "spy camera" of its era. Despite its tiny dimensions, it features a high-performance 15mm f/4-element Complan lens, capable of producing remarkably sharp images on 9.5mm film. Its signature "push-pull" telescoping action not only advances the film and cocks the shutter but also protects the lens and viewfinder when not in use. Built with the precision of a fine Swiss watch, the Minox C is a functional piece of history that represents the pinnacle of miniature analog technology.

Key Features

• Revolutionary "Push-Pull" rapid-wind mechanism for discreet, fast operation

• High-resolution 15mm f/3.5 Complan lens—equivalent to a wide-angle on 35mm

• Electronic shutter with "Aperture Priority" automation (1/1000s to 10s)

• Parallax-corrected bright-line viewfinder for accurate framing in a tiny body

• Built-in sliding green and neutral density (ND) filters for creative exposure control

• Focuses as close as 20cm, making it an elite tool for document reproduction

• Ultra-compact satin-finish aluminum body that fits completely inside a closed fist

Introductory Paragraph The Minox C is the definitive miniature camera for the serious collector and analog enthusiast. This specific unit features the legendary 15mm f/3.5 optics, which were designed specifically to resolve high levels of detail on the tiny 8x11mm film frame. Unlike cheaper subminiature cameras, the Minox C offers a sophisticated electronic exposure system, allowing the photographer to focus entirely on the subject while the camera handles the shutter speed. It is a purely tactile instrument; the mechanical "click" of the telescoping body is one of the most satisfying sounds in photography. Whether you are an enthusiast of spy history or a photographer looking for the ultimate "always-with-me" analog tool, the Minox C provides a level of craftsmanship that is simply unmatched in the modern era.

Condition Report Good condition. The miniature aluminum body shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its vintage age. The 15mm f/3.5 lens is optically clear, free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The signature "push-pull" telescoping mechanism is smooth and firm. The electronic shutter has been tested and fires across the speed range, and the internal light meter remains responsive to changing light conditions. The film chamber and battery compartment are clean.

Specialist Note "The Minox C is a triumph of miniaturization that still feels like a futuristic gadget. What I love about this model is the 'Electronic' brain—it was a huge leap forward from the manual Minox B, making it much more reliable for candid snapshots. The 15mm Complan lens is a tiny marvel; when used with fine-grain film, the sharpness it produces is staggering for such a small negative. It’s not just a camera; it’s a piece of industrial art that you can carry in your pocket. For anyone fascinated by the mechanical ingenuity of the 20th century, the Minox C is a must-own centerpiece."

What's Included

• Minox C Miniature Camera

• Integrated 15mm f/3.5 Lens

• Original Minox Measuring Chain (for close-up focus)

• [Optional: Original Leather Slip Case if available]

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: Miniature Camera

• Film Format: Minox Subminiature (9.5mm / 8x11mm frame)

• Lens: 15mm f/3.5 Complan (4 elements in 3 groups)

• Shutter: Electronic diaphragm shutter (1/1000s - 10s)

• Focus Type: Manual Scale Focus (20cm to Infinity)

• Category: 1. Cameras ▸ Digital Compact Camera

• Battery Type: 1x 5.6V PX27 (Modern replacement: 4x LR44 or adapter)