Olympus XA2 (1980–1985)

Name: Olympus XA2
Brand: Olympus

A compact 35mm film viewfinder camera with program auto exposure and zone focusing, built for everyday carry.

Overview

The Olympus XA2 is a 35mm film viewfinder camera made from 1980 to around 1985. Olympus designed it as a cheaper alternative to the original XA. It has the same pocketable form and build quality, with simpler controls. You get full program auto exposure, center-weighted metering, and a fixed 35mm f/3.5 lens that focuses by moving the front element. Reviewers know it for consistent metering and a clear exposure pattern, and it became a favorite for daily use and travel.

The XA series was designed by Yoshihisa Maitani, and the XA2 shares the clamshell design that resets focus to mid-distance when closed. Focusing is by zone, with three preset distance ranges. There is no autofocus, so it is fast to operate. Reviewers praised its optical performance, often rating it above other compact cameras of its class.

Specifications

Lens	35mm f/3.5, four element Tessar variant, front element focus
Focus	three zone manual
Focus reset	Resets to mid-distance when clamshell is closed
Metering	Center weighted, program auto
ISO	25 to 800
Shutter	1/500 - 2 seconds
Aperture	integrated with the two shutter blades
Power	2 S76 cells
Size	2.598" x 4.102" x 1.605" HWD (measured)
Weight	7.480 oz., (212.1g) with two S76 cells (measured)
Film format	35mm film
Exposure	automatic exposure (program auto)
Focusing	zone focusing (consistent with "three zone manual")
Form factor	pocketable

Context

Olympus positioned the XA2 as the budget-friendly option in the XA series. It cost less than the XA and had full program automation, which some reviewers preferred over the aperture-priority system of the original. The XA3 was based on the XA2 but added DX film speed reading. The XA4 used a 28mm lens. The XA2 was noted for its popularity and reliability, and it became a favored take-everywhere film camera.

Market

Used XA2 listings have been observed at various price points between $100 and $345, depending on condition and included accessories. Common problems are shutter malfunctions, film advance trouble, and power-related failures. Some repairs are considered approachable for DIY enthusiasts. Light seal kits are available, and units are sometimes sold for parts or repair.