Minox 8×11 System Overview
The classic subminiature camera system introduced in 1938 and refined for decades.
Introduction
The Minox 8×11 system is the original subminiature camera family, beginning with the Riga Minox in 1938. Designed as a precision instrument, the 8×11 cameras became known for their compact size, exceptional engineering, and distinctive sliding‑body design. The system continued through multiple generations, each refining the concept while retaining the core Minox philosophy.
8×11 Camera Comparison
| Model | Years | Size (mm) | Weight | Key Features | Typical UK Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riga | 1938–1943 | 80 × 27 × 16 | 130g | Stainless steel body, Minostigmat lens, fully mechanical | £1,800–£3,500 |
| Minox II | 1948–1950 | 82 × 28 × 16 | 70g | Pentar lens, mechanical shutter, no meter | £250–£899 |
| Minox III / IIIs | 1950–1969 | 82 × 28 × 16 | 70g | Complan lens, mechanical, no meter,black ££££££ | £150–£300 |
| Minox B | 1958–1972 | 97 × 28 × 16 | 92g | Selenium meter, Complan lens, black £££ | £120–£250 |
| Minox BL | 1972–1977 | 100 × 28 × 16 | 80g | CdS meter, battery powered,Black ££££££££ | £200–£350 |
| Minox C | 1969–1978 | 120 × 28 × 16 | 102g | CdS meter, electronic shutter 1/1000–10s, Black £££ | £150–£300 |
| Minox LX | 1978–1996 | 120 × 28 × 16 | ~100g | Electronic shutter to 1/2000, improved electronics,Black ££ | £250–£450 |
| Minox CLX | 1990s | 120 × 28 × 16 | ~100g | Special editions, luxury finishes, often faulty | £400–£900 |
| Minox EC | 1981–1995 | 80 × 21 × 13 | 60g | Fixed focus, plastic body, fully automatic | £60–£120 |
| Minox ECX | 1990s | 80 × 21 × 13 | 60g | Updated EC with improved electronics | £80–£250 |
Key characteristics
- Ultra‑compact sliding‑body design
- Precision 15mm f/3.5 Minox lens (varies by model)
- Close‑focus capability down to 20cm
- Unique chain‑based focusing system
- Dedicated Minox 8×11 film cartridges
- Quiet, low‑vibration shutter
Models in the series
The 8×11 family includes the Riga Minox, Minox A, Minox B, BL, C, LX, EC, and ECX. Each model introduced improvements in metering, shutter control, ergonomics, or materials while maintaining the essential Minox form.
Film and processing
Minox 8×11 cameras use dedicated Minox film cartridges. Processing can be carried out using Minox daylight tanks or by specialist laboratories. Film handling and loading are unique to the system and form an important part of the Minox experience.
Accessories
The 8×11 system includes chains, cases, flash units, enlargers, copy stands, film cutters, and a wide range of specialised accessories. Many accessories exist in multiple revisions, making them of interest to collectors.
Servicing
MS Hobbies provides in‑house servicing for all Minox 8×11 models. This includes shutter timing, transport cleaning, meter assessment, and general mechanical adjustment. Servicing helps preserve these precision instruments for long‑term use.
Last revised: 08 February 2026.