MINOLTA VECTIS GX-3
1996

Serial Nr.40717709
Minolta Code 2281-103

Characteristics and funzions
The Minolta Vectis GX-3 was introduced in 1996. This camera uses IX-240 APS(Advanced Photo System) type film and is part of a series of 4 Vectis “GX” cameras.
The Vectis GX-1, GX-2 and GX-3 are three waterproof cameras with identical
performance and differing only in the appearance of the "body", while the Vectis GX4 is an underwater camera up to 5m., yellow color. The lens is a 27mm. f.1/6.4 and is
the equivalent of a 34 in the 35mm format. The focus is fixed from 1mt. endlessly.

The exhibition is programmed AE. The lens is located inside a protective glass andthere is no cap covering the lens itself. The body of the Vectis GX-3 is light blue withaquamarine rubberized plastic parts. On the upper side we find the oval window ofthe display where the indications of the flash appear, which flashes when thecapacitor is not fully charged and which blocks the shutter release of the camera, theframe counter which is of the subtractive type, that is, which highlights the number ofshots missing at the term and, lastly, the indication of the state of charge of thebattery. Continuing to the right we find the oval, yellow shutter button, locatedtogether with the display, in a depression designed to comfortably arrange the firstphalanx of the index finger of the right hand. The left side of the camera is completelysmooth. On the right side of the Vectis GX-3 are located the release switch for thefilm compartment cover (move the yellow part upwards, then rotate the entire mountto the left in the direction of the FILM indication as highlighted by the arrow) and the ''recess to insert the wrist strap mount or one of the other shoulder straps available asoptional accessories. On the back side of the GX-3 we find the eyepiece window
where the three bright frames appear with the references to formats C, H, and P. It
should be remembered that the choice of format concerns only the return of the firstprint (size 10x15, 10x18, 10x24, respectively), but that the negative is always
impressed in the maximum format (H). In the lower part of the back there is theattachment for accessories such as the mini tripod or the bands for carrying thecamera by arm or waist. Along the right side there is an aquamarine rubberized
plastic part, slightly hollowed, where to place the thumb of the right hand for a stablegrip even with one hand. On the front of the camera we find the word MINOLTA withthe Rising Sun in the "O", silkscreened in white followed by a transparent
asymmetrical window that contains the viewfinder and the flash. In a central
protuberance are placed the lens and the exposure meter cell, the white writing
VECTIS GX-3, positioned on two lines, and the yellow selector/switch with theindications P, H, C, OFF and Self-Timer also they are silk-screened in white. Alongthe two vertical sides there are two areas of different shapes, in aquamarine
rubberized plastic. The bottom of the GX-3 is occupied by the two large black doors:that of the film compartment on the left and that of the battery compartment on theright, with a common hinge. On the film compartment lid we find the APS symbol
engraved and the instructions on how to load/unload the film without causing
flooding. On the cover of the battery side there is a small black plastic label located ina special compartment, which shows the serial number and the indications: "Minolta
Co. Ltd, Osaka Japan, Made in China", the release mechanism with the indications
OPEN - CLOSE and the words "Battery open with coin". On the far right, in a slightly
depressed area, the symbol "CE" = European Conformity is located. Available asoptional accessories are 4 types of carrying straps, a camera attachment system on
the backpack and an adjustable strap for the positioning of the camera on thewaist/arm.
Powered by a 3v lithium battery. type CR2.
Weight 215g. batteries and strap excluded.
Length 123.5mm. Height 74mm. Depth 46.5mm.