SRM

(1970)  The first Minolta SLRs, the SR-2 and SR-1, were designed to accept a motor drive, but the motor drive was never marketed.  This tells us that, from the beginning, Minolta understood that many photographers wanted a motor-driven camera, and in 1970 they finally developed a motor-driven camera -- the SR-M.  It appeared four years after the SRT101 and was different in several ways.  While it came with a built-in motor-drive and included the mirror lockup, it lacked the TTL meter and the self-timer.  In fact, the meter was removed completely.  There wasn't even the option for a clip-on meter, like in the SR-3 and SR-1.  The rationale for this was that since the meter could not be used in motorized mode, it was irrelevant.  Of course a meter could have been used to take an initial reading, but Minolta designed this camera for professionals; that would have access to a hand-held meter.  And removing the meter helped keep the cost down, as well.  

The self-timer and stop-down (DOF) button were also seen as irrelevant, and removed.  Again, these could have been useaful at times, but their removal helped cut the cost.  All other features were comparable to the SRT101.  For a comparative look at the major features of the SRM, check out MINMAN's SLR table -- the world's most complete!

It was labeled the SR-M instead of SRT-M because it lacked a meter.  Many assume, therefore, that it was a modified SR body since it also lacked the self-timer and DOF button of the SRT101.  Others contend that since it appeared four years after the SRT101 was introduced that it was a modified SRT101.  It fact, it's in a class by itself.  It has it's own body styling and its own class of features -- more similar to the SR777 than any other Minolta camera.  Many accessories were available, such as a 250 exposure back, and a camera bracket which doubled as the battery pack.  The motor was permanently attached to the camera and not removable.  Minolta felt that this assured greater reliability and their next motorized camera -- the XK Motor -- used the same approach. 

RETURN TO THE MANUAL MINOLTA HOME PAGE We didin't want to do this, but since other websites have been stealing our stuff, we have no alternative but to state:
COPYRIGHT@1995-2023 by Joe McGloin.

All Rights Reserved. The material on this website is protected by US Federal copyright laws. It cannot be copied or used in any manner without specific approval from the owner.

The material on this website is protected by US Federal copyright laws. It cannot be copied or used in any manner without specific approval from the owner.