Minolta Autocord L

Buying Tips

The Autocord L added a selenium meter to the proven Autocord design. The meter is the main concern when buying this model.

• Selenium meter: The uncoupled selenium meter is almost certainly weak or dead after 60+ years. Test it outdoors in bright sun — if it barely moves, it is finished. Do not pay a premium for the meter; price the camera as if it were unmetered.
• Lens haze: Check both lens elements carefully for haze, which is especially common on examples stored in humid climates. Hold the camera up to a light source and look through the taking lens from both sides for any cloudiness or internal fogging.
• Shutter operation: Test all speeds on the Seikosha shutter. Slow speeds (1s through 1/4s) are most likely to be sluggish or stuck. Fire each speed several times — inconsistency indicates the need for a CLA.
• Focus mechanism: Work the focusing crank through its full range. It should move smoothly without gritty spots or binding. A stiff focus crank can mean dried lubricant in the helicoid.
• Build quality: Despite the meter concern, the Autocord L has the same excellent Rokkor optics and Japanese build quality as the unmetered version. A dead meter does not diminish its value as a shooting camera.
• Service considerations: Fewer repair technicians work on Autocords than on Rolleis or Yashicas. If the camera needs a CLA, confirm a technician can service it before committing to a purchase.

See our complete TLR buying guide for a full inspection checklist.