The Olympus XA1 is a 35mm camera and part of the XA series. It was built in the early 80s.
From the outside, it looks very similar to the Olympus XA, but the inner values are by no means comparable to the legendary rangefinder camera. The XA1 does without a rangefinder and aperture priority, has a maximum aperture of f/4 instead of f/2.8 and also makes an honestly cheaper impression from the outside.
The only real advantage, even if only in part, is that it doesn’t need batteries. The 35mm camera has a selenium light meter, as known from the Olympus Trip 35. This sets the correct exposure time for ISO 100 or ISO 400 films.
A flash can be connected on the side, but only flashes for the XA series.
In terms of price, the Olympus XA1 with A9M flash was priced at 27,800 yen.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4 |
| Minimum focus distance | 150 cm / 4.92 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 4 groups |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | XA flash connector |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 10,4 x 6,5 x 4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.09 x 2.56 x 1.57 inches |
| Weight | 190 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 136,82 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 91 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 96,39 Euro (103.91 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 112,00 Euro (121.23 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 128,71 Euro (138.55 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus XA1
How does this Olympus camera work without a battery?
The Olympus XA1 uses a selenium light meter, similar to the Olympus Trip 35. This meter automatically sets the correct shutter speed for ISO 100 or ISO 400 film without needing a battery.
Is it easy to adjust the aperture on this compact camera?
No, the Olympus XA1 doesn't have an adjustable aperture. It has a fixed aperture of f/4, unlike some other cameras with a wider maximum aperture.
What kind of flash can I use with the XA1?
You can use a flash with the Olympus XA1, but only flashes specifically designed for the XA series can be attached to the side.
What type of film does this little camera use?
The Olympus XA1 is a 35mm film camera. This means it uses standard 35mm film cartridges.
Does this camera have a viewfinder?
No, this particular camera model, the XA1, does not have a rangefinder. It relies on the photographer's estimation of framing and focus.
Es gibt doch ‘viewfinder’ aber es stimmt, dass es kein ‘rangefinder’ gibt.
Ein rangefinder würde aber überflüssig, weil man den Fokus nicht stellen kann…