Minox Camera Servicing
MS Hobbies has specialised in Minox cameras since 1970 and provides professional servicing for Minox 8×11 and Minox 35 cameras. This page describes servicing for customers in the United Kingdom. Customers outside the UK should refer to the International Minox Service page.
Northern Ireland Customers
Customers in Northern Ireland may use the standard UK servicing process. Cameras should be described as used camera sent for repair. No transfer of ownership is involved. Return postage is normally by Royal Mail Special Delivery.
Minox 8×11 Cameras
- Mechanical overhaul and lubrication
- Shutter and timing adjustment
- Rangefinder and focus calibration
- Light‑seal replacement where applicable
- General inspection and functional testing
Parts availability varies by model and condition. Cameras are assessed individually before work is undertaken.
Minox 35 Cameras
- Mechanical servicing and adjustment
- Electronic fault diagnosis where practical
- Shutter and aperture checks
- Light‑seal replacement
- General inspection and testing
Long‑term reliability depends on condition and component availability. An assessment is carried out before any work proceeds.
Technician’s Report
A technician’s report is provided after assessment and before any work proceeds. Customers may download a blank copy of the report format used during servicing.
Turnaround Time
The average turnaround time for Minox 8×11 servicing is 3–5 weeks. Complex repairs or parts requirements may extend this to 8 weeks. These estimates allow for parts availability, customs processing and workshop scheduling.
Many repairs are completed sooner where faults are straightforward and parts are available.
| Brand / System | Typical Turnaround | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minox 8×11 (post‑war) | 3–5 weeks (up to 8) | Precision mechanical |
| VEF Minox (Riga) | 6–10+ weeks | Early design, scarce parts |
| Minox 35 | 4–6 weeks | Electronics + mechanics |
| Leica M (film) | 6–12 weeks | Factory queues |
| Contax G1/G2 | 8–12 weeks | Few specialists |
| Contax T2/T3 | 8–14 weeks | AF modules, electronics |
| Rollei 35 | 4–8 weeks | Mechanical |
| Hasselblad V‑System | 6–10 weeks | Shutter + magazine service |
EU Customers
EU shipments to the UK are subject to customs processing. Delays caused by German customs or UK Border Force are outside our control and may extend the total turnaround time.
Note on VEF Minox (Riga Production)
Original VEF Minox cameras require more complex servicing than later Wetzlar or Minox GmbH models. Many components differ from post‑war designs, and replacement parts are extremely limited. Longer turnaround times should be expected.
Associated Items
- New Minox 8×11 cassettes
- Minox wallets (limited availability)
- Minox 8×11 film
- Selected enlarger parts
Availability is limited and subject to stock at the time of service.
How to Arrange Servicing
Please contact MS Hobbies with details of your camera and the issue you are experiencing. You will be advised whether servicing is practical and how to proceed.
UK Service Request Form
UK customers may use the form below to request an initial assessment. Please do not send a camera until you have received confirmation.
Your details
Name:
Email:
Telephone (optional):
Camera details
Camera model:
Serial number (if known):
Description of fault or service requested:
Associated items (if required)
New Minox 8×11 cassettes
Minox wallet
Minox 8×11 film
Submission of this form does not constitute acceptance of work. MS Hobbies will confirm practicality, estimated cost and return postage before any servicing is undertaken.
Return Postage (United Kingdom)
Serviced cameras returned within the UK are normally sent by Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed.
- Up to 500 g: approx. £10.95
- Up to 1 kg: approx. £12.95
Exact postage is confirmed when the service is completed.
For Northern Ireland, the Post Office may request a paper customs declaration. The camera should be described as used camera sent for repair.
Contact
London SW15, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)20 3 971 8827 or +44 (0)7393 639 811
Email: info@mshobbies.co.uk
Revision: 26 February 2026 (MSH‑SERV‑02)
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