Olympus XA A11 35mm Rangefinder Camera

I purchased my first Olympus XA in 1980 as an accompaniment to my Nikon F2A system. Its size and portability filled a niche in my photographing technique that superceded the Nikon in many instances where precise focusing and exposure were not possible. Its inconspicuous presence could easily be utilized in crowded situations without calling attention to itself or me. As small as a deck of cards(without the attached A11 flash), it can easily be held, and all features operated, with one hand. I took many of my finest silver gelatin images with this camera as the Zuiko optics encompassed in the 35/2.8 lens are well-suited for "decisive moment" street photography. The camera travels well, also, and accompanied me on numerous worldwide adventures. The camera provided me with 10 years of reliable service under very difficult working conditions. I have worked without the XA for the past 15 years and have greatly missed it. With the onslaught of the Digital Revolution, these types of cameras are more and more difficult to find, so for old school photographers like myself that prefer doing work primarily in a darkroom rather than a PC, I am glad that this camera was available by eBay auction. There seem to be many of these Olympus XA cameras available through auction, but if you intend to have one as a "working" camera, may I suggest you find one in mint condition or better. And don't just buy the first one to come along as surely many will follow. Also, beware the later model XA2 which does not have the aperture-priority option, but rather "scene" settings.