minolta X-1, XM, XK; It's not broken, supposed to do that

#minolta's first X-series camera has a bad reputation for a flaw in the design. But it was not a flaw, minolta did it intentionally. Most SLR's had what was called a quick return mirror, but some pro cameras (Lookin' at you Hasselblad) didn't have a quick return mirror. Instead, the mirror blacked out the viewfinder at the moment of exposure and the mirror did not return until the photographer reset the mirror by winding to the next exposure. minolta incorporated this feature so pro;s could still make a quick, on the fly exposure after the camera had been switched off. But it's the responsibility of the photographer to know the "nickel trick" to reset the mirror afterwards.
#minolta# #XK# #XM# X-1# #Professional camera#

[@FrederickSlowly]

I am the proud owner of the three versions of the camera (X1/XM/XK). They are all the same camera with different designations for different regions. After using these cameras for the past five years, I would like to add a comment to set the record straight. Assumption: The camera is in a good working condition. 1) This is a MANUAL electronic camera that does not have an ON/OFF switch. The camera turns on when the shutter button is pushed to take a picture. If the battery is depleted in any mode the mirror will lock up. Fresh batteries or the battery cover trick will reset the mirror. Without batteries, X sync and (B) bulb are the only two fully mechanical shutter speeds available for use. 2) Upon adding a finder with a meter, the purpose of the POWER switch at the back of the finder or the SENSE switch, is to ONLY turn the meter ON. You can then set your exposure from the information in the viewfinder. If you know your exposure setting in advance neither power switch is required. 3) When the speed is set to AUTO, the camera is now in aperture priority mode and power to the meter from the POWER or SENSE switch is MANDATORY for this mode. The camera body needs the settings from the meter to set the shutter speed in the AUTO mode. If power is not turned ON the mirror will lock up for 30 sec. resulting in over exposure for that frame if that was not the shutter speed intended. During that 30 sec. if you turn the dial away from AUTO the mirror will reset. Please get and read the manual....

[@eatenbyopium]

thank you brother thought my camera was toast!!!!

[@angelisone]

This was a joined venture of ATG & Minolta. During late 60's, companies have to change or die if they stay with full mechanical. ATG came & assisted with electronic. While dated Hasselblad didn't. Four decades later, ATG/Shirro owned Hasselblad. Back to Minolta, ATG informed serious/professional photographers about mirror locked-up. And this series need battery. X-1 was sold in Japan, but the bread & butter was the XK, sold in USA. Since many were using Canon F-1 & Nikon F2 systems, many simply can not afford to switch. So the Minolta X series & Pentax LX (by ATG), Rolleiflex 3003 (by ATG) & Olympus M-1, OM-1, OM-2/3/4 (by father/ATG) died. Many didn't know that ATG's Contax 645 put Hasselblad & Rolleiflex in the history book. And ATG/Asian's Hasselblad does not use German's optics, but with ATG/Japan optics. Nevertheless, the Minolta X-1 (A-1, had to be changed like the ATG's father's M-1), XK & XM are fine masterpieces. Since this X series are over 50 years old, many staffs & photographers are dead. So true information were buried with them.

[@yourniceneighbourhoodcat2156]

I have that exact camera, with that problem but it happens when I have the batteries in. No matter what I do the mirrror locks up.

[@peterleipelt7599]

I have the XM and the same problem. At minute 6:50 you mentioned a lever. No matter which position I choose, the mirror doesn't fold back. I've changed the batteries at the bottom. I don't know what else I can do. Do you have any ideas?