Minolta Hi-Matic G2 (1982)

The Minolta Hi-Matic G2 is a compact 35mm camera released by Minolta in 1982. It belongs to the Hi-Matic series, which began in the early 1960s as a line of small, highly automated cameras built around a normal lens. The G2 is described as one of the earlier entries in that family, though it showed up two decades after the series launched.

The camera has a fixed 38mm f/2.8 Minolta lens, a spec confirmed across multiple independent dealer listings. Focusing is four-zone, not a true rangefinder. The photographer picks a distance zone, and only the middle two click into place. Exposure is fully programmed and automatic, with the aperture set by the camera. The body is metal and plastic, offered in black and silver, and weighs approximately 350g. It takes standard 35mm film and has a 46mm filter thread.

The G2 was clearly aimed at casual shooters. Dealers describe it as very lightweight, compact, and "perfect for everyday photography." The lens is noted for its sharpness and versatility. A bundled "Minolta Electro Flash 20" appears alongside the camera in period listings, which suggests flash was a companion accessory and not built in.

Documentation on the G2 is thin. No original price, shutter speed range, or battery type is recorded in the available sources. What survives comes mostly from modern dealer listings, not period reviews or official literature. The camera runs on batteries, and sellers note fresh batteries installed and light meters in working order. One UK dealer (photosolution.co.uk) notes that new light seals had been installed during servicing. The original foam seals degrade with age, as they do on virtually all cameras of this era.

Known specifications:

- Lens: Minolta 38mm f/2.8, fixed

- Focusing: 4-zone (middle two zones click)

- Exposure: Fully programmed auto

- Film: 35mm standard

- Filter thread: 46mm

- Body: Metal/plastic, black & silver

- Weight: ~350g

- Released: 1982

The G2 trades today in the $100 - $150 range depending on condition.