Used Olympus XA 2 35mm Compact Camera + Flash
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Condition & contents
| Grading | Excellent overall condition for age, all functions working, great example of a classic 35mm Camera |
|---|---|
| Testing | Fully tested |
| Warranty | 6 month warranty |
| Includes | Hard Case and Strap |
At a glance: Cult 1980 clamshell 35mm compact with a sharp 35mm f/3.5 Zuiko lens and simple three-zone focusing.
About this camera
The Olympus XA2 is an iconic, genuinely pocketable 35mm film compact from 1980. Its cult status rests on the clever clamshell capsule design that protects the sharp D.Zuiko lens, making it a beloved everyday point-and-shoot.
Build & handling
| Type | 35mm film compact (point-and-shoot) |
|---|---|
| Lens | D.Zuiko 35mm f/3.5 (4 elements in 4 groups) |
| Focus | Zone focus, 3 zones (portrait/group/landscape; approx 1.5m, 3m, infinity) |
| Exposure | Programmed auto exposure (CdS cell) |
| Shutter speeds | 2 sec to 1/750 sec (programmed, stepless) |
| Viewfinder | Direct optical with 35mm brightlines |
| Design | Clamshell/capsule sliding barrier cover |
| Weight | Approx 200g (without batteries) |
| Batteries | 2x LR44 (SR44/A76) 1.5V |
Works with
- Optional Olympus A11 clip-on electronic flash (A16 also fits)
- Uses standard 35mm film cassettes (film speed approx ISO 25-800)
- Powered by 2x LR44 (SR44/A76) 1.5V batteries
Best for
The XA2 suits film enthusiasts who want a truly pocketable everyday camera that is quick to shoot. Instead of autofocus, it uses zone focus: you set the distance using one of three symbols (a single figure for close portraits, a group of figures for mid-range, and mountains for landscapes/infinity), and the programmed auto exposure handles the rest. The sliding capsule cover protects the lens and switches the camera on, contributing to its enduring cult reputation as a grab-and-go street and travel companion.
Frequently asked questions
Is the XA2 autofocus?
No. It uses simple three-zone focusing; you slide a lever to a symbol for close, mid or distant subjects and the camera sets the focus zone.
What film does it take?
Standard 35mm film cassettes. The auto exposure supports roughly ISO 25 to 800.
Do I control the aperture or shutter?
No. The XA2 is fully programmed auto exposure, so it selects both aperture and shutter speed for you; you just focus and shoot.
Does it need batteries to work?
Yes. Two LR44 (SR44/A76) cells power the electronic shutter and metering; without them the camera will not fire correctly.