Minolta SRT 102 35mm Camera Body, Chrome (Version 1 with Mirror Lockup) Review

The Minolta SRT 102 is a classic manual-focus 35mm SLR from the 1970s, priced at $125 for this chrome Version 1 body featuring the rare mirror lockup function. It's a fully mechanical camera with through-the-lens metering, robust build quality typical of the SRT line, and compatibility with Minolta's extensive Rokkor MD and MC lens catalog. The mirror lockup is a standout feature for this early version, allowing for vibration-free long exposures and macro work, though later versions omitted it.

This particular listing comes from KEH, a trusted used camera dealer, in conditions ranging from bargain to excellent. The SRT 102 offers manual exposure control, a bright viewfinder, and a reliable shutter mechanism that doesn't require batteries to fire. It's an ideal learning platform for shooters who want to master manual exposure and aperture-priority metering. Because it's fully mechanical, it will keep working in most conditions, though the meter does require a battery. With no digital reviews yet, it's best evaluated on its well-documented legacy as a workhorse film SLR for enthusiasts and students.