AFAIK, the original model was the YE 35, released about 1967/8 wihth a max ISO rating of 400 and some other (later models) up to 500.
A couple of years later came the G versions which included gold plated sliding switches which obviously overcome a major defect the earlier models would show in high humidity environments: erratic contact then erratic camera performance, if not working at all.
The first black models were called "Professional" and included a set of two aux lenses in the kit as well as a small table tripod.
At this time the aux. lenses were also sold as option for the other camera models.
In other words, if you wanted the black, then you get the Professional in kit form, but if you wanted it in chrome, then you can order the aux. lens kit.
After cease of production of the Professional version, then came the GT and the GS, respectively black and silver models, and ISO went up to 1000.
Some years later, came the GTN and the GSN which were produced initially in Japan and later, production was moved to Hong Kong. Another change was the lettering in the upper casing which was in italics and changed to block capitals, allways saying Electro 35. The model identifier was placed in the lower right of the lens.
The last models of both cameras were identical in performance to their early japanese counterparts, but it was mentioned that general parts quality was lower in chinese cameras.
Japanese cameras had some identification either "Japan" or made in Japan. HK made cameras just added an H before serial number but didn´t mention any country. Also serial nr. stamping is weak in comparison with older units.
Lenses were allways made in Japan, but I can´t tell where they were assembled.
The only significant difference I found between both is that the chinese YE35 lacked one black metal baffling inside the VF. The replacement of it gave a dramatic improvement in VF quality. This piece was never fitted to my camera, as there were no signs of removal. It was simply made without the part.
I have a japanese made GT which today acts as donor camera, and a GSN. The only difference I found was that mentined before, otherwise, both cameras are exactly identical.
The MG1 was a cheaper evolution of the YE35, assembled in HK, and sported a Yashinon DX 2.8 45 mm. It´s as bulkier as the YE35 and a bit lighter. Shutter speeds go from 2 sec up to 1 /500th, with a top mounted selector for Flash (1/100th) or Auto. No B. VF doesn´t have parallax correction (only bright lines). The meter cell is (fortunately) located inside the 55 mm filter thread so exposure correction is automatic.
I had one and it´s a nice camera, however a bit limited for it´s slow lens. Lens is tack sharp and color rendition is excellent. Should be cheaper than a GSN or GTN. IMO It would be a nice second choice to stay in your car´s glove box.
Hope it helps.
Ernesto
