Leica's pocket compact — the mini, fixed 35mm f/3.5, program AE autofocus, 1991.
The Leica mini is a fixed-lens 35mm compact from 1991, Leica's entry into the small autofocus point-and-shoot market. It was manufactured for Leica by Kyocera and carried a Leica-branded prime lens in a pocketable body. It was aimed at photographers who wanted a small everyday camera under the Leica name rather than a manual system camera.
Made for 35mm film, the Leica mini has a fixed 35mm f/3.5 Elmar lens with a built-in UVa filter. It uses active infrared autofocus from 0.65m to infinity with an infinity-lock setting, programmed AE exposure with a plus-two-stop override, and a built-in flash. It is powered by a single CR123A lithium cell.
The 35mm lens and small body make the Leica mini suited to street, travel and general everyday shooting where a discreet, pocketable camera is wanted. The plus-two override gives a little exposure control beyond full automation, useful for backlit scenes. It is a simple automatic camera aimed at convenient carry.
When buying used, confirm autofocus locks and that the infinity setting works, and inspect the 35mm lens for haze, fungus and coating damage. Check the LCD for complete, bleed-free segments, test the flash and the exposure override, and listen for smooth film transport. Inspect the CR123A battery compartment for corrosion and verify the film-door light seals remain intact.