Leica AF-C1 (1989–1991)
Leica's first point-and-shoot, autofocus, and auto-exposure camera - built around a rebadged Minolta with a red dot.
Overview
The Leica AF-C1 is a compact 35mm viewfinder camera with autofocus and auto-exposure. It was Leica's first point-and-shoot. Officially sold between 1989 and 1991, it was developed with Minolta and based on the Minolta AF-Tele Super, with a slightly refined design and Leica branding. It is not a traditional Leica rangefinder. A motorized switch selects between two fixed lenses: a 40mm f/2.8 normal lens and an 80mm f/5.6 portrait lens. Leica marketed it as "The Compact Idea" and aimed it at younger, affluent professionals who wanted the Leica name without the complexity of manual operation. The camera uses DX-coded 35mm film, supports ISO 50-3200, and focuses as close as 0.7 meters.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Leica |
| Product type | Compact 35mm autofocus camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Lens | Leica 40mm f/2.8 / 80mm f/5.6 (switchable) |
| Minimum focus distance | 0.7m |
| ISO range | 50 - 3200 (via DX code) |
| Dimensions (80mm lens) | 140mm x 83mm x 92mm |
| Weight (without battery) | 345g |
| Original price | US $400 |
Design
The AF-C1 is plastic, with a motorized mechanism to switch between its two focal lengths. It differs from the Minolta AF-Tele Super by offering a 40mm lens instead of a longer focal length, which gives it an odd spot in Leica's lineup. It was also Leica's first model with a proper handgrip, which helps for casual shooting. The body is larger than most compact film cameras of its era, and its chunky form reflects late 1980s design trends.
Context
Leica was recovering financially when the AF-C1 appeared. It came after the successful launch of the M6 and the return of manufacturing to Germany. Leica had no in-house expertise in autofocus electronics, so it leaned on its long-standing partnership with Minolta, which dated back to the CL rangefinder and R-series SLRs. The AF-C1 was not marketed as a point-and-shoot but as "The Compact Idea," with the stress on accessibility and ease of use. It was featured twice in Leica Fotografie International in 1989, including a field test by author Günter Osterloh in the tropics, where it earned full marks as a snapshot camera. At $400, it cost nearly triple its Minolta counterpart ($149).
Market
Original pricing was $400. Current market examples vary widely: one eBay listing offered a non-working unit for $76.50, while an Etsy seller listed a working model at $323.90 (originally $395). Collector demand looks niche and inconsistent. User feedback describes it as quirky but likable, with one noting, "The more I use my Leica AF-C1, the more I like it."
eBay Listings
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