Yashica 35 GSN

The Yashica Electro 35 GSN is a classic aperture-priority 35mm rangefinder with a fast 45mm f/1.7 lens and stepless electronic shutter. It offers superb low-light capability, precise focusing, and simple exposure automation, making it one of the most popular vintage rangefinders of the 1970s.

1. Lens

• Fixed Yashinon-DX 45mm f/1.7 lens

• 6 elements in 4 groups

• Excellent sharpness and low-light performance

2. Exposure System

• Aperture-priority automatic exposure

• User selects aperture (f/1.7 – f/16), camera automatically sets shutter speed

• Exposure range: EV 4 – EV 17 (ISO 100)

3. Shutter

• Electronically controlled leaf shutter

• Stepless speeds: 1/500s to ~30 seconds

• Very accurate metering thanks to electronic timing

• Bulb (B) mode available for long exposures

4. Metering

• CdS light meter powered by a battery

• “Over” and “Slow” exposure warning lights in the viewfinder

• Exposure lock available by half-pressing the shutter

5. Focusing

• Coupled rangefinder focusing system

• Focus distance: 0.8m – infinity

• Superimposed rangefinder patch for precise manual focusing

6. Viewfinder

• Bright-frame viewfinder with parallax correction marks

• Displays warning lights (“slow” and “over”)

• Large and clear, easy for low-light focusing

7. Film System

• Uses 35mm film (standard cartridges)

• ISO range: 25 – 1000 (set with dial)

• Manual film advance lever and rewind crank

8. Flash Use

• Standard hot-shoe and PC socket

• Flash sync speed: 1/500s (high compared to many cameras of its era)

• Flash exposure managed via guide number system (aperture manually set)

9. Build & Design

• Solid metal body, high-quality finish

• Dimensions: ~140 × 90 × 75 mm

• Weight: ~750g

• Classic rangefinder look, durable and reliable

10. Power

• Originally used a 5.6V mercury battery (PX32 or equivalent)

• Today adapted with modern alkaline or rechargeable solutions (adapter required)

• Battery powers the electronic shutter and light meter (camera won’t function without it)