The Yashica 35 ME was a compact downsized 35mm camera from 1974. It featured "guesstimation" manual focus and an automated exposure system using a two blade shutter that also determined aperture by opening either partway or fully.
A single button battery powers the light sensor, and the meter needle is visible in the viewfinder, displaying paired program shutter speed and aperture. The needle mechanically stops the blades internally at proper exposure.

This one needed repair, including a flushing of the shutter with solvent and a replacement of key foam light seals at the back door.
Afterwards I decided to see what the camera can do.
Loaded with a roll of oudated (but mostly kept cold) Kodak Max 400 film, which I rated at about asa 320, I squeezed off 24 exposures, some here at home, and the remainder along the Meramec River in Sunset Hills, MO.

Camera performance was adequate but indifferent.
Film performance was indifferent, and a bit grainy.
Weather was reasonable for mid February.
Lighting conditions were not very exciting.

PS: Look for me in the mirror in image no. 003A.

Please click on thumbnails to see enlargement.
All images are ©2012 E.J.Kowalski.