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.
Walter Zapp conceived and built the original Minox (the Riga camera) in the 1930s and was instrumental in founding Minox GmbH. He left the Minox plant around 1950 after disagreements with management and did not return as the principal designer of the later B, C, LX or EC series. The Minox T8 pocket telescope (c.1990) is the only later Minox product clearly tied to Zapp’s own later patents and designs.
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, 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 | ~130g | Special editions, luxury finishes, often faulty shutters | £400–£900 |
| Minox EC | 1981–1995 | 80 × 21 × 13 | 70g | Fixed focus, Makrolon | £60–£120 |
| Minox MX | 1996-2002 | 84 x 3.4 x 2.1 | 58g | Focusing lens, single=speed shuttter no meter | £50–£100 |
| Minox ECX | 1990s | 80 × 21 × 13 | 60g | Updated EC with improved electronics | £80–£250 |
Key characteristics
- Ultra‑compact sliding‑body design to protect lens and viewfinder
- 15mm f/3.5 Minox lens with depth of field from 7ft-infinity
- Close‑focus capability down to 20cm with correction
- Unique chain‑based focusing system
- Drop in and re-useable film cartridges up to 50 exposures
- Quiet, low‑vibration shutter
- Part of complete system: with enlarger, daylight tank, wallets, viewers and tripod
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.
Materials note
Minox employed both metal and polymer body materials to balance precision, durability, and weight across different camera designs. Early mechanical models relied on anodised aluminium components for dimensional stability and wear resistance, while later electronically controlled cameras adopted moulded polycarbonate bodies to reduce weight, provide electrical insulation, and accommodate more complex internal assemblies. The use of mixed materials reflects engineering requirements rather than changes in build quality or intended use.
Glossary
- Makrolon
- Trade name for a high‑grade polycarbonate material developed by Bayer. In Minox cameras, Makrolon refers to the moulded body shell material rather than a surface coating. The colour and finish are integral to the material, providing a lightweight, impact‑resistant casing with electrical insulation.
Last revised: 08 February 2026.