Voigtlander Vito B (1954-1960)

Voigtlander Vito B (1954-1960)

#456

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

The Vito B is an attractive and compact 35mm viewfinder made by Voigtländer and produced between 1954-60. It has the fine Color-Skopar 50mm f/3.5 or f/2.8 lens (a four element Tessar-type) in a 4-speed Pronto or 8-speed Prontor shutter.

The Vito B was equipped with either a 4-speed Pronto (B, 1/25th, 1/50th, 1/100th, and 1/200th sec) or 8-speed (B, 1, 1/2, 1/5th, 1/10th, 1/25th, 1/50th, 1/100th, and 1/300th sec) Prontor SVS shutter, the 4-speed shutter being discontinued in 1957. The shutter is cocked by the film engaging a sprocket wheel, preventing double exposure, and so will not cock if there is not a film present; this has led some to mistakenly diagnose the shutter of a working Vito B as broken.

The self-timer mechanism can be engaged by moving the synchronising lever to the V (green) position; however, given the age of the camera and the weak governing spring, using this feature is discouraged, as it can cause the camera to stop working.

The Vito B's body is compact and rounded, a look characterised as "cute". It has some nice features including a hinged baseplate for easy loading (which also releases the back) and a milled film counter that counts down rather than up.

The Vito B body existed in two versions, the first one (1954-57) had a small viewfinder and low profile top plate. The later version (1957-60) had a larger bright-frame viewfinder; while brighter and more useful than the original Vito B's viewfinder, some enthusiasts feel that this spoiled the appearance of the camera.

Source: Camerapedia

Small, sweet little scale-focus classic from Voigtlander. One of those cameras that you really need to hold in your hot little hand to appreciate. My sample is the ‘budget’ version, with 4-speed Pronto shutter instead of the better Prontor-SVS shutter. A later model (BS) has an oversized viewfinder that while more practical, in my opinion throws off the ‘look’ of this sleek little package.

The Vito B sports the same semi-legendary Color-Skopar found on the everpopular Vito II and other Voigtlander classics. It is a sharp Tessar style lens, occasionally found in the faster 50/2.8 configuration. f8 and better is quite impressive. The shutter is very smooth and silent even in this model, and with the scale focus this becomes a great stealth camera.

Notable features: manual frame counter setting, the counter is subtractive (counts backward) so after loading set it to the number of exposures and let it count down to zero. Also the shutter is locked until you put a film in the camera, sometimes that will allow you to get a seemingly ‘broken’ one as a bargain.

Source: mattsclassiccameras.com

Specifications

Embossing on the top plate: Vito B

Lens:Color-Skopar 50mm f/3.5 filter slip-on

Aperture: f/3.5-f/22 setting: ring and scale on the lens, turns with the speed ring, according to Light Values 2-18, separate setting possible by a knob on the lens

Focus range: 1-20m + inf

Focusing: manual front element focusing, guess the distance

Shutter: Prontor-SVS leaf shutter, speeds: 1-1/300 +B. The shutter is cocked by the film engaging sprocket wheel, preventing double exposure, so will not cock if there is not a film in the camera. This has led some to mistakenly diagnose the shutter of a working Vito B as broken.

Setting : ring and scale on the lens, turns with the aperture ring, according to Light Values 2-18, separate setting possible by a knob on the lens

Shutter release: on the top plate, w/cable release socket

Cocking lever: long stroke, on the back of the camera

Frame counter: manual reset by milled film counter reseting ring on the front of the bottom plate, counts down, counter window at the center front of the top plate

Viewfinder: large 1/1 size crystal bright-frame viewfinder on tall housing

Re-wind knob: on the left of the top plate, a pop-up knob by a small lever on left side of the camera

Re-wind release: unlocks when the re-wind knob pops-up

Flash PC socket: on the left of the lens flange

Flash sync: X and M, sets by a lever on the left of the lens flange

Cold-shoe

Self-timer: set the synchronising lever to the V (green)

Back cover: hinged, a part of the bottom plate folds open to facilitate the exchange of the film cartridge as well as to open the camera's back door

Tripod socket: 1/4" (actually a 3/8" socket with a pre-installed 1/4" adapter)

Strap knobs

Body: metal; Weight: 610g

Source: Camerapedia


Model

Probably later version (1957-1960)

No serial number


Reference sites

Camerapedia

mattsclassiccameras.com

Manual

English manual

Film

Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Polo FMD System Motor Drive (~1990)

Polo FMD System Motor Drive (~1990)

#452

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

This article refers to a series of cheap plastic 35mm cameras, sold under a bewildering number of names and styling variations, designed to deceive the shopper. They are often seen advertised on auction sites at ridiculously high prices, sometimes as an outfit including an equally cheaply-made tripod and carrying case. They have been attributed to the Ouyama company based in Taiwan, and are manufactured in China.
Most shameless is the variety of names under which the camera is sold. "Olympia" is intended to sound vaguely like Olympus; "Nikai" or "Nokina" like Nikon; and "Tashika" like Yashica. Many others simply use counterfeit Canon (or "Canomatic") labeling—right down to the stylized font used for the name. Other names that have also been observed include Ouyama, Mitsuba, Panoramic, Sonaki, Elco, Ultima, Rokinon, Akira, Cyber 2002, Nikkei, Minotar, Panasound and even Sony. There are undoubtedly others.
An oddity of many of these models is the inclusion of a brilliant finder within the top housing (where a real SLR would have a pentaprism). As there is no focusing adjustment possible, this is simply a stylistic flourish; and recent models seem to omit it. The camera kit may also include a separate "potato masher"-styled electronic flash: Impressive-looking, but equally shoddy in its construction.

Source: camera-wiki.org


Specifications

Elaborate styling that superficially resembles an SLR, a metal weight in the base to conceal the all-plastic construction, and (typically) a battery-driven film advance (sometimes labeled as "Full Motor Drive") - all distract the buyer from noticing that these are basically trashcams. They have fixed focus, poor-quality "optical" lenses; and while the aperture may be adjusted from (nominally) f/6.3 to f/16, there is a single, non-adjustable shutter speed. The apparently large lens diameter is mostly a dummy clear plastic cover; the actual optics are much smaller and recessed into the plastic barrel.

Source: camera-wiki.org


Model


Reference sites

camera-wiki.org

CollectiBlend

Manual


Batteries


Film

35mm film

Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Pentax ME Super (1980-1986)

Pentax ME Super (1980-1986)

#448

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

In 1977, Pentax had introduced two compact 35mm SLRs, the MX and the ME, after the Olympus OM-1 presented in 1972 had introduced a new trend for compactness in SLR cameras.

The Pentax ME was the automatic model, but it had no manual mode. It was replaced in 1979 by the simpler MV and the more advanced ME Super, which was the smallest and lightest SLR (440g) available, with the following changes:

• manual mode added
• shutter speed range from 4s to 1/2000, sync at 1/125
• additional shoe contact for dedicated Pentax flash units
• different finder magnification
• The marking "ASAHI" in the pentaprism housing was eliminated sometime between the ME and the ME Super

The Pentax ME Super was an aperture priority automatic camera, with an electronic focal plane shutter from 4s to 1/2000, flash synchronized at 1/125. The camera also shoots manually (no battery) at the 1/125 flash speed. The shutter curtains were metal and had a vertical movement. For manual mode, the customary shutter knob was replaced by two buttons, up and down, to select the shutter speed. The exposure meter was of the standard TTL open aperture center weighted type. It was activated by a slight pressure on the release button.

The Pentax ME Super had a 0.95x viewfinder, covering 92% of the field. The finder screen was fixed, with a split image and a microprism ring in the center. The shutter speed chosen by the camera or the user was displayed in the finder, the aperture was not.

There was a self-timer and a hot shoe on the top of the prism with an additional contact for dedicated Pentax flash units. The selector around the release button had five positions: L (lock), Auto, M (manual), 125 and B. The Pentax ME Super could attach the external winder ME (1.5 i/s) or the later Winder ME II (2i/s). The Pentax ME Super could also mount a Dial Data ME databack, or the later Digital Data M databack via a cord adapter.

The lenses were interchangeable with the K bayonet mount. Together with the ME and MX, the SMC Pentax-M series of compact lenses were introduced.

The Pentax ME Super existed in chrome or black finish. There was a special edition called ME Super SE, only sold in chrome finish; the differences are the SE marking and the diagonal instead of horizontal split-image device in the focusing screen.

A derivative with a primitive autofocus mechanism, called the Pentax ME-F, was released in 1981. Production of the ME Super stopped in 1986.

Source: camerapedia


Specifications

Maker: Pentax
Dates: 1980-1986
Variants: chrome, black, SE
Lens mount: Pentax K with fully automatic diaphragm linkage
Shutter type: SEIKO MFC-E2 electronic focal plane, vertical, metal
Min. shutter speed: 4s
Max. shutter speed: 1/2000
Exposure meter: TTL, open aperture, center weighted by GPD cells. EV 1-19
Exposure modes: aperture priority, manual, 125 mechanical, Bulb
ASA/ISO range: 12 to 1600 ISO
Finder screen: fixed split-screen
Shoe: fixed hot shoe, contact for dedicated flash
X sync speed: 1/125
TTL Flash: no
Motor drive: external Winder ME (1.5i/s) or Winder ME II (2i/s)
Battery: 2 × 1.5V (SR44, LR44 or equivalent)
Weight: 445g w/o lens
Number produced: unknown

Source: camerapedia


Model

Serial number 2043604


Reference sites

camerapedia


Manual

English manual


Batteries

2 LR44 batteries

Film

Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Canon AT-1 (1976 - ~)

Canon AT-1 (1976 - ~)

#447

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

The AE-1 with shutter speed-priority AE and TTL metering became wildly popular in Japan and overseas.

However in a few overseas markets, the AE-1 had a high price tag. There were also many users who still preferred manual metering. In response to these people, the AT-1 was developed. It had the same body as the AE-1. It featured match-needle metering and TTL centerweighted averaging metering with CdS photocell. The camera could use the same accessories as the AE-1.

Source: Canon Camera Museum

Canon introduced the AT-1 in late 1976, about eight months after the immensely popular AE-1 made its debut. Both SLRs utilize the FD lens mount.

While outwardly the two models are near-twins, and share many accessories, the AT-1 was an export-only model offering cost-conscious buyers a cheaper alternative. Where the AE-1 offers shutter-priority autoexposure, the AT-1 is a pure match-needle, manual-exposure camera. Its viewfinder display is a simplified throwback to earlier match-needle SLRs: an analog needle floats to reflect a TTL reading of the scene brightness; and the user adjusts either aperture or shutter speed until the EV "lolipop" aligns with the needle position. There is no indication of either the selected aperture or shutter speed in the viewfinder.

Despite these appearances, the AT-1 is not a full-blown retro mechanical SLR: it is based on the innovative cost-cutting electronics of the AE-1. The shutter is electronically timed and entirely dependent on battery power. A 10 second self-timer with blinking LED indicator is activated by rotating a tab alongside the shutter release to its forward position. (Rather illogically, returning the tab to its normal position does not cancel the self-timer; instead it fires the shutter immediately.)

While never selling in the same numbers as the AE-1 or AE-1P, today an AT-1 offers photographers access to numerous inexpensive, used FD-mount lenses, in a body free from extraneous bells and whistles.

Source: camera-wiki.org


Specifications

Type: 35mm focal-plane shutter SLR camera
Picture Size: 24 x 36 mm
Normal Lens: Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 SC
Lens Mount: FD mount
Shutter: Four-axis, horizontal-travel focal-plane shutter with cloth curtains. X, B, 2, 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000 sec. All speeds controlled electronically. Built-in self-timer (with blinking LED).
Flash Sync: X-sync automatic-switching sync contacts with German socket and hot shoe.
Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism. 0.82x magnification, 93.5% vertical coverage, 96.3% horizontal coverage. Split-image rangefinder encircled by microprism rangefinder at center of fresnel matte screen. Metering match needle, overexposure warning (also battery check indicator), and underexposure warning provided.
Exposure Control:  CdS cell for TTL full-aperture, match-needle centerweighted averaging metering. Metering range at ISO 100 and f/1.8 lens: EV 3 – 17. Film speed range from ISO 25 to 3200.
Power Source: One 4G-13 6 V mercury oxide battery or 4LR44 alkaline battery
Film Loading & Advance: Slotted take-up spool. Advances with camera-top lever’s 120 stroke (partial strokes enabled). Ready position at 30.
Frame Counter: Counts up. Resets automatically when camera back is opened.
Film Rewind: Camera-top crank
Dimensions & Weight: 141 x 87 x 48 mm, 590 g

Source: Canon Camera Museum


Model

Serial number 570051


Reference sites

camera-wiki.org

Canon Camera Museum


Manual

English manual

English booklet


Batteries

V28 PX 6V battery

Film

Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Revue SC5 Auto (1993-)

Revue SC5 Auto (1993-)

#443

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

Revue SC5 auto aka Cosina C2 sold by the German mail-order house Foto Quelle. Entry level SLR for 35 mm film with Pentax K-mount from 1993. Manual film advance and focussing was a bit old fashioned at that time.

Source: flickr.com

The C2 is a manual-focus 35mm SLR made by Cosina and using the popular K-mount bayonet for lens interchangeability. The camera offers a choice between manual match-LED exposure settings and aperture-priority autoexposure. In auto mode, the electronically-timed shutter offer speeds from 1/1000 sec down to 8 seconds. Flash sync is at 1/60th sec. Pressing the transparent red button on the front of the camera activates a electronic self-timer delay of 10 seconds, with an indicator lamp whose flashing speed becomes more rapid in the final 2 seconds.

The Cosina C3 is essentially the same camera, but with shutter speeds from 1/2 to 1/2000 sec. The Cosina C1s is a close sibling, lacking the electronic shutter and auto-exposure of the C2, but with a 1 to 1/2000 sec. shutter range and flash sync at 1/125.

The features of the Cosina C2 resemble those of the Cosina-manufactured Canon T60 and (with modifications) the Nikon FE10. The C2 has also been sold under other names, such as the Revue SC 5 auto and Carena 1000 SX. The C3 has appeared rebranded as the Voigtländer VSL 43, the Phoenix P2, and likely several other names.

Source: camera-wiki.org


Specifications

Manual exposure mode and aperture-priority AE mode.
Shutter speeds: 1 to 1/1000 s and B (M), 8 to 1/1000 s (AE), flash synchronisation 1/60 s
Film speed: 25 to 1600 ASA
Metering range: EV 1 to EV 18 (f/2, 2 s to f/16, 1/1000 s at ISO 100)
Batteries: 2x LR44 (1.5 V)
Weight: 370 g (body only)
Displays in viewfinder: array with shutter speeds, exposure modes, under/over exposure and B with LEDs aside. In M-mode selected and suggested shutter speed is indicated. Split image, micro prism collar.
Tripod socket, self-timer, cable release socket, hot shoe, frame counter, shutter button lock via "lock" on the dial. Vertically operating metal focal plane shutter, electronically controlled.
This camera has a mechanical sibling, the Cosina C1s.

Source: flickr.com


Model

Serial number 30109489


Reference sites

camera-wiki.org

flickr.com


Manual

English manual (Cosina C2)


Batteries

2 LR44 batteries

Film

Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Pentax K1000 (1976-1997)

Pentax K1000 (1976-1997)

#434

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

K1000 is a 35mm film SLR camera made by Pentax and produced between 1976–97. Its design descends from the original Spotmatic series of screw-mount SLRs introduced in the 1960s.

An affordable camera for the amateur photographer, it was a fully mechanical, manual camera designed without any program modes. It survived much longer than originally intended and became the archetypal "student's camera." The K1000 was equipped with all features required for manual photography: a TTL metering system, wide-ranging shutter speeds from 1/1000 to 1 s, and the ability to use all the available K-mount lenses made by Pentax and licensees such as Ricoh and Cosina. The K1000 omitted some features found on more advanced models, such as depth-of-field preview, self-timer, and separate meter on/off switch.

Despite its great popularity and longevity of the same basic design, Pentax finally ceased production of the K1000 after more than 20 years in 1997.

The K series evolved from the classic Spotmatic SP 1000, in fact the K1000 itself is essentially a Spotmatic with a bayonet rather than M42×1 screw mount.

Source: camerapedia


Specifications

Lens release: lever on the right lower side of the lens mount, slide downward and turn the lens counter clockwise, when mounting the lens the red marks of the lens and the camera must be aligned
Focusing: manual front focusing, via Fresnel matte screen, ring and scale window on the lens
Shutter: horizontally traveling, rubberized silk focal plane, speeds: 1/1000–1 s +B; setting: speed dial knob on the top plate
Shutter release: on the top plate, with cable release socket
Cocking lever: also winds the film, short stroke, retractable, on the right of the top plate
Frame counter: additive type, auto-reset, window on the cocking lever
Viewfinder: eye level SLR pentaprism, needle index of exposure meter visible in it
Exposure meter: full frame averaging TTL metering with built-in coupled match-needle meter ASA range: 20–3200, setting: ring and window on the speed dial, lift and turn
Exposure setting: manual, turn the speed dial or aperture ring until the needle aligned to the center of the index, in the finder
Rewind: folding crank on the top plate, turns when winding
Rewind release: a button on the bottom plate
Flash PC socket: left lower front side of the camera, w/ removable lid, X-Sync. 1/60, red X mark on the speed dial
Hot-shoe
Self-timer: none
Back cover: hinged, opens by lifting the re-wind lever
Tripod socket: 1/4 in
Strap lugs
Battery: 1.5 V LR44 alkaline or SR44 silver oxide (only for exposure meter)
Battery chamber: on the bottom plate
Attention: leave the lens cap on when you are not using the camera, there is no on-off switch for the exposure meter, so it works continuously

Source: camerapedia


Model

Serial number 7868338


Reference sites

camerapedia

Manual

English manual


Batteries

2 LR44 batteries

Film


Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Super (1959-1962)

Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Super (1959)

#433

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

This is a Zeiss-Ikon Contaflex Super, a 35mm Single Lens Reflex leaf shutter camera made by Zeiss-Ikon AG in Stuttgart, West Germany between the years 1959 and 1962.  It was part of the long lived Contaflex series that saw many variations between the original Contaflex I in 1953 all the way to the Contaflex S from about 1970.  The Super, as it’s name implies was a rather high spec version of the camera, featuring a coupled selenium exposure meter with match needle readout in the viewfinder, and a 4-element 50mm Tessar lens with interchangeable front elements.  With the use of Pro-Tessar bayonet mount lenses, the Contaflex had available wide angle and telephoto lenses.

Source: mikeeckman.com


Specifications

Film Type: 135 (35mm)
Lens: 50mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Tessar coated 4-elements
Lens Mount: Contaflex Bayonet (front element only)
Focus: 2.5 feet to Infinity
Viewfinder: Fixed SLR Pentaprism
Shutter: Synchro-Compur Leaf
Speeds: B, 1 – 1/500 seconds
Exposure Meter: Coupled Selenium Cell w/ viewfinder and top plate match needle
Battery: None
Flash Mount: Coldshoe and M and X Flash Sync
Weight: 850 grams

Source: mikeeckman.com


Model

Engraved X 46064

Reference sites

mikeeckman.com


Manual

English manual


Film


Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Pentax MG (1981-1984)

Pentax MG (1981-1984)

#432

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

The Pentax MG was a product of Asahi Optical Co later called Pentax Corporation, introduced in 1981 and produced until 1984. It was a replacement of the MV and MV1 cameras as entry level 35mm semi-automatic camera.

The Pentax MG was a manual focus, aperture priority camera, with no manual settings of speeds. The Pentax MG had an electronic focal plane shutter from 1s to 1/1000, synchronized at 1/100. The shutter curtains were metal and had a vertical movement. However, if the batteries fail the camera still operated at 1/100s or B, thus the selector around the release button had three positions: Auto, 100X (1/100, X sync) and B. The exposure meter is center-weighted TTL type with open aperture measuring for Pentax M compatible lenses. The Pentax MG can use any Pentax K-mount and can still be used with current Pentax lenses. There was a self-timer and a hot shoe with an additional contact for dedicated Pentax flash units. The Pentax MG used 2 SR-44 batteries or equivalent to power it.

The Pentax MG had a 0.87x viewfinder, covering 92% of the field. The finder screen was fixed, with a split image and a microprism ring in the center. The shutter speed chosen by the camera was displayed in the finder by LEDs, which also indicated over/under exposure or slow speeds and the possibility of shaking. However the aperture was not displayed. The camera also had an exposure compensation from +2 to -2 EV.

Pentax MG with SMC Pentax-M 50/2 lens
The body resembles that of the M-Family of cameras such as the ME, MX, MV, etc. and as such was compatible with the external Winder ME (1.5 frame/s) or the later Winder ME II (2 frame/s). The Pentax MG could use the Dial Data ME databack with an adaptor to slide in the hot shoe, or it could make direct use of the Digital Data M databack. The Pentax MG was available in chrome or black finish.

Source: Wikipedia


Specifications


General
Lens Mount: K
Mount Limitations: The lens must be set to a numerical aperture
Self-Timer: 4 ~ 10 sec
Mirror Lock-Up: —
Cable Release: mechanical
Infra-Red Release: —
Additional Features: —
Width x Height x Depth: 132 x 85 x 49.5 mm
Weight: 423 g

Exposure System
Exposure Modes: Av
Metering Modes with K and M Lenses: center-weighted
Metering Modes with A and newer Lenses: center-weighted
Meter Material: GPD
Exposure Compensation (Step): XXX
Exposure Lock: —
Meter Range: 2 ~ 19 EV
Manual ISO Range: 25 ~ 1600 ASA

Shutter
Construction: electronic (vertical)
Material: metal
Shutter Speeds: 1 ~ 1/1000, B
Mechanical Speeds: X, B

Viewfinder
Magnification [Coverage]: 0.87x [92%]
Aperture Indication: —
Shutter-Speed Indication: LED
Interchangeable Screens: —

Power Source
Batteries: 2 x 1.5 Volt silver-oxide (A76, SR44) or alkaline (LR44)
External: —

Continuous Shooting
Continuous Shooting: manual wind lever
Compatible with Winder(s): ME, ME II

Flash System
Command Protocol(s): analog
Features: S
Synchronization Speed(s): 1/100 ~ 1, B
Built-In Flash: —

Accessories
Fitting Case(s): soft case: ME super MG

Source: kmp.pentaxians.eu


Model

Serial number 7285975


Reference sites

kmp.pentaxians.eu

Wikipedia


Manual

English manual


Batteries

2 LR44 batteries

Film


Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Canon A-1 (1978-1985)

Canon A-1 (1978-1985)

#431

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

The Canon A-1 is an advanced level single-lens reflex (SLR) 35 mm film camera for use with interchangeable lenses. It was manufactured by Canon Camera K. K. (today Canon Incorporated) in Japan from April 1978 to 1985. It employs a horizontal cloth-curtain focal-plane shutter with a speed range of 30 to 1/1000 second plus bulb and flash synchronization speed of 1/60 second. It has dimensions of 92 millimetres (3.6 in) height, 141 millimetres (5.6 in) width, 48 millimetres (1.9 in) depth and 620 grams (22 oz) weight. Unlike most SLRs of the time, it was available in only one color; all black. The introductory US list price for the body plus Canon FD 50 mm f/1.4 SSC lens was $625, the camera was generally sold with a 30–40% discount (roughly $375 to $435).

The A-1 is a historically significant camera. It was the first SLR to offer an electronically controlled programmed autoexposure mode. Instead of the photographer picking a shutter speed to freeze or blur motion and choosing a lens aperture f-stop to control depth of field (focus), the A-1 has a microprocessor programmed to automatically select a compromise exposure based on light meter input. Virtually all cameras today have at least one program mode.

Beginning with the amateur level Canon AE-1 of 1976, there was a complete overhaul of the entire Canon SLR line. The 1970s and 1980s were an era of intense competition among the major SLR brands: Canon, Nikon, Minolta, Pentax and Olympus. Between 1975 and 1985, there was a dramatic shift away from heavy all-metal manual mechanical camera bodies to much more compact bodies with integrated circuit (IC) electronic automation. In addition, because of rapid advances in electronics, the brands continually leapfrogged each other with models having new or more automatic features, and less expensive components and assembly. The industry was trying to expand out from the saturated high-end professional market and appeal to the large mass of low-end amateur photographers keen to move up from compact automatic leaf shutter rangefinder cameras to the more "glamorous" SLR but were intimidated by the need to learn all the details of operating a traditional SLR.

The A-1 is the high technology standard bearer of the landmark Canon amateur level A-series SLRs. The other members of the A-series are the Canon AE-1 (released 1976), AT-1 (1977), AV-1 (1979), AE-1 Program (1981) and AL-1 (1982). They all use the same compact aluminum alloy chassis, but with differing feature levels and outer cosmetic acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plastic panels. By sharing most major components, and an inexpensive horizontal cloth-curtain shutter, costs could be spread out over a larger production volumes. The A-1 represented Canon's bid to defeat Nikon through more features and the cheapest price.

The A-1 caused a sensation when it was released in early 1978. Most photographers were amazed at its advanced features, years ahead of the competition, but in the face of changing technology, not all comments were positive. Professional photographers worried about the long term reliability of its consumer-level mechanical and electronic components under heavy daily use, the relatively slow flash sync and top shutter speeds. Traditionalist photographers complained about an "excess" of automation ruining the art of photography, a criticism that was leveled at all of the newly automated cameras released in the 1980s. However, automation turned out to be the right way to entice many new amateur photographers on a budget, and paid off very well for Canon.

The Canon A-1 was a runaway best seller, as it offered new SLR buyers considerable features and value for the price. It was reliable for its day in amateur usage. But as competitors brought out their own programmed SLRs,[1] the A-1 began to show its age. This is especially true for its horizontal cloth-curtain shutter, viewfinder information display and autoflash control. The A-1 was due for replacement when the Canon T90 came out in 1985. Canon's abandonment of the FD lens mount for the EOS design also had a significant effect on demand for the A-1 on the used market. But it is still regarded as one of the most fascinating SLRs of its generation and many are still in regular use.

Source: en.wikipedia.org


Specifications

The A-1 accepts any lens with the Canon FD breech lock mount (introduced in 1971) or Canon New FD pseudo-bayonet mount (sometimes called the FDn mount, introduced 1979). It can also use most earlier FL lenses and some even older R (or Canomatic) series lenses, albeit with reduced functionality. This excludes all of Canon's EF bayonet mount autofocus lenses (introduced in 1987). During the late 1970s and 1980s, there were approximately 55 Canon FD lenses available for purchase. They ranged from a 7.5mm f/5.6 fisheye to an FD 800mm f/5.6 telephoto, and included lenses with maximum apertures to f/1.2 and a line of L-series lenses of exceptional quality. Accessories for the A-1 included the Canon motor drive MA (automatic film advance up to 5 frames per second), the Canon Databack A (sequential numbering or date stamping on the film), and the Canon Speedlight 155A (guide number 56/17 (feet/meters) at ASA/ISO 100) and Canon Speedlight 199A (guide number 98/30 (feet/meters) at ASA/ISO 100) electronic flashes.

The A-1 is a battery-powered (one 4LR44 or PX-28) microprocessor-controlled manual-focus SLR with manual exposure control or shutter priority, aperture priority or programmed autoexposure. A fifth mode is "stopped down AE", in which the aperture is closed and alterable by the photographer and the camera selects the shutter speed based on the actual light reading. This differs from aperture priority in which the aperture is not closed until a photograph is taken and the shutter speed is calculated based on the light measured through the fully open aperture. Stopped down AE existed so that old FL lenses could be used with at least some kind of AE, and was also useful for photomicroscopy, manual-aperture lenses, etc. The A-1 is the first SLR to have all four of the now standard PASM exposure modes. It has a viewfinder exposure information system using a six-digit, seven-segment per digit, red alphanumeric LED display on the bottom of the viewfinder to indicate the readings of the built-in centerweighted, silicon photocell light meter. The focusing screen also has Canon's standard split image rangefinder and microprism collar focusing help.

Source: en.wikipedia.org

• Type:35mm focal-plane shutter SLR camera
• Picture Size: 24 x 36 mm
• Normal Lens: Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 SSC, FD 50mm f/1.4 SSC
• Lens Mount: FD mount
• Shutter: Four-axis, horizontal-travel focal-plane shutter with cloth curtains. X, B, 30, 15, 8, 4, 2, 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000 sec. All speeds controlled electronically. Built-in self-timer (with 2- and 10-sec. delay and blinking LED). Multiple exposures enabled with a lever. Electronic shutter release.
• Flash Sync: X-sync automatic-switching sync contacts with German socket and hot shoe.
• Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism. 0.83x magnification, 93.4% vertical coverage, 95.3% horizontal coverage. Split-image rangefinder encircled by microprism rangefinder at center of fresnel matte screen. Eyepiece shutter provided. Six interchangeable focusing screens optional (installed by service personnel). The standard screen was later replaced by the brighter and sharper Laser Matte screen.
• Viewfinder Information: Digital readout with 7-segment red LED for shutter speed, aperture, dedicated Speedlite flash-ready, manual settings, and warning displays.
• Metering & Exposure Control: SPC for TTL full-aperture centerweighted averaging metering or TTL stopped-down metering. Exposure compensation range of 2 EV. AE lock provided. Five AE modes: Shutter speed-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, program AE, preset aperture-priority AE, and Speedlite AE (with dedicated Speedlite). The mode is set with a selector dial. Metering range at ISO 100 and f/1.4: EV -2 – 18. Film speed range from ISO 6 to 12800 in 1/3 steps.
• Power Source: One 4G-13 6 V mercury oxide battery or 4LR44 alkaline battery. Battery check with button and blinking LED.
• Film Loading & Advance: Slotted take-up spool. Advances with camera-top lever’s 120 stroke (partial strokes enabled). Ready position at 30.
• Frame Counter: Counts up. Resets automatically when camera back is opened. Counts down during rewind.
• Film Rewind: Camera-top crank
• Dimensions & Weight:  141 x 92 x 48 mm, 620 g

Source: global.canon


Model

Serial number 1412230


Reference sites

en.wikipedia.org

global.canon

mir.com.my


Manual

English manual

Canon A-1 Repair Guide


Batteries

V28 PX 6V battery

Film

Kodak ColorPlus 200/24

Fujicolor C200/36

Pictures taken with this machine

Kodak ColorPlus 200/24 sample 1

Kodak ColorPlus 200/24 sample 2

Kodak ColorPlus 200/24 sample 3

Fujicolor C200/36 sample 1

Fujicolor C200/36 sample 2

Fujicolor C200/36 sample 3

Videos

Pentax MX (1976-1985)

Pentax MX (1976-1985)

#429

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

The Pentax MX was a 35 mm single-lens reflex camera produced by Asahi Optical Co, later Pentax of Japan between 1976 and 1985. It was Pentax's flagship professional SLR until the introduction of the Pentax LX. Internally, the MX is essentially a smaller, lighter version of the Pentax KX, and otherwise has little in common with the rest of the Pentax M-series. However, the MX was designed as the mechanical twin sister of the remarkably successful entry-level Pentax ME.

The MX was solidly built, and featured a fully mechanical construction, including a mechanical shutter of the horizontal cloth type. Only the light metering system was dependent on batteries. The MX is all manual: it does not feature autofocus or autoexposure modes such as aperture-priority, shutter-speed priority, or full program.

A number of accessories were produced, among those: Focusing Screens

SC1: ground glass, split image device, microprism ring (standard)
SA1: ground glass, microprism patch
SA3: ground glass, microprism patch, for wide aperture lenses
SB1: ground glass, split image device
SD1: ground glass, cross collimator
SD11: aerial image, cross collimator
SE: ground glass
SG: ground glass, grid
SI: ground glass, axis,
Data backs, Dial Data MX and a bulk film back. Motorized winder Winder MX (2 frame/s) or a Motor MX (5 frame/s)motor drive.

Like all post-42 mm screwmount Pentax cameras, the MX accepts all K-mount lenses (with the exception of the newer FA-J and DA lenses without aperture rings).

Due to its complete lack of automatic functions, but excellent array of manual controls, the MX is often selected as a camera for photography students to practice their technique. The depth-of-field preview and self-timer functions render the MX superior in this respect to the earlier and cheaper Pentax K1000.

Source: wikipedia


Specifications

Year introduced: 1976
Mount: K
Meter range: 1 - 19 EV
Meter pattern: c
ISO range: 25 - 1600
DX ISO range: No DX coding
Exposure modes: M, B
Exposure compensation: Not applicable
Exposure lock: Not applicable
Shutter speeds (auto): Not applicable
Shutter speeds (manual): 1 - 1/1000s, B
Shutter speeds (mechanical): 1 - 1/1000s, B
Self timer: Yes
Mirror lock-up: No
Auto bracketing: Not applicable
Multiple exposures: Yes
Winder: External winder 2 fps, motor drive 1-5 fps
Built-in flash: No
TTL flash: No
P-TTL flash: No
Sync speed: 1/60s
Flash exposure comp: Not applicable
Autofocus: No
Autofocus sensitivity: Not applicable
Power zoom: No
Viewfinder: 0.97x, 95%
Viewfinder type: Pentaprism
Diopter correction: No
Exchangeable screen: Yes
Depth of field preview: Yes
Image size: 24 x 36 mm
Panorama format: No
Battery: 2 x S76
Battery grip/pack: Yes, for the motor drive
Size (W x H x D): 136 x 82.5 x 49.5 mm
Weight: 495 g

Source: pentaxforums.com

Model

Serial number 4037308


Reference sites

pentaxforums.com

wikipedia


Manual

English manual


Batteries

2 LR44 batteries

Film


Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Canon AE-1 Program (1981)

Canon AE-1 Program (1981)

#421

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

Five years after the original AE-1 was introduced, Canon brought out an excellent upgraded version in 1981, known as the AE-1 Program or AE-1P in short. The AE-1 Program was considered as one of the two most elegant looking A series bodies (the other was the Canon A-1 in 1977).

The AE-1 Program was certainly a worthy successor. It was packed with improved features, which were not found in its predecessor. Among the features was the Programmed AE, (first debut in the A-1) in addition to the Shutter-priority AE and manual override modes. It also has eight user interchangeable focusing screens, using the new laser matte types as well as some with extra bright laser matte technology developed for the flagship model, the New Canon F-1. It has a new, dedicated Power Winder A2 that has additional remote capability, but the camera still accepts the older Winder A and can even share the Canon A-1's Motor Drive MA for up to 4 fps burst rate for action photography.

It also accepts most of the accessories within the FD system, including Data Back A, macro accessories, A and G-type of Canon Speedlites for fully automated flash photography. All FD, New FD and FL lenses are usable with the AE-1P. Full aperture metering is only possible with the FD and New FD lenses. Stopped-down metering with the FL lenses.

As with the Canon A-1, the AE-1 Program was indeed, very popular and well received by consumers. Although there were some minor shortfalls in its design to make it a true classic, it was still a worthy camera among its class during the years of its availability, from early to the mid-80s.

Obviously, the AE-1 Program was a much easier camera to use as compared to the multi-mode Canon A-1. Although the A-1 has more features and functions to control exposure, those available on the AE-1 Program were actually improvements over what the A-1 has and it has a more simplified way in controlling exposure, which made the camera an easier model for beginners to use.

Source: mir.com.my


Specifications

Type: 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera with electronically-controlled automatic exposure (AE) and focal-plane shutter.
Exposure Modes: Programmed AE, shutterspeed priority AE, AE flash photography with specified Canon electronic flash units, and manual override.
Format: 24 x 36mm.
Usable Lenses: Canon FD (for full-aperture metering) and Canon FL and non-FD (for stopped-down metering) series lenses.
Standard Lenses: FD 50mm f/1.2, FD 50mm f/1.4, FD 50mm f/1.8
Lens Mount: Canon breech-lock mount.
Dioptric Adjustment: Built-in eyepiece is adjusted to standard -1 diopter.
Focusing Screen: Standard split-image/microprism rangefinder. Seven other types of interchangeable screens are available optionally.
AE Mechanism: Electronically-controlled programmed AE and shutter-speed priority AE metering system using one IC and three LSl's with  .
Light Metering System: Through-the-lens (TTL), Center-Weighted Averaging by silicon photocell (SPC).
Meter Coupling Range: EV 1 (1sec. at f/1.4) to EV 18 (1/1000 sec. at f/16) with ISO/ASA 100 film and f/1.4 speed lens.
Exposure Memory: EV locked in when shutter button is pressed halfway and the AE lock switch is pressed once. Exposure is memorized as long as shutter button is pressed halfway.
Exposure Preview: By pressing shutter button or exposure preview switch.
Shutter: Cloth, focal-plane, 4-spindle, electronically-controlled. With shock and noise absorbers.
Mirror: Instant-return, with shock-absorber.
Film Speed Scale: ISO/ASA 12 - 3200.
Shutter Speed Selector Dial: 2 sec.- 1/ 1000 sec.. plus "PROGRAM" and "B" With guard.
Shutter Release Button: Two-step, electromagnetic shutter release button. Also serves as exposure preview switch. With lock, cable release socket, and finger rest.
Main Switch: Three positions: "A" "L," and "S." At "L" all active circuits are cut off as a safety feature. "S" position is for self-timer photography.
Self-timer: Electronically-controlled. Main switch set to"S."Activated by pressing shutter button. Ten-second delay with electronic "beep-beep" sound. Number of beeps emitted per second increases two seconds before shutter release. Cancellation possible.
Stop-down Lever: For depth-of-field preview (FD lens) or metering (non-FD lens or close-up accessories).
Power Source: One 6v alkaline-manganese (Eveready [UCAR] No. A544,IEC 4LR44) silver oxide (Eveready [UCAR] No. 544, IEC 4SR44, Duracell PX 28), or lithium (Duracell PX 28L) battery. Battery lasts about one year under normal use.
Battery Check: "Beep-beep" sound when pressing battery check button. Six or more beeps per second indicate sufficient power; three or fewer beeps per second indicate insufficient power.
Flash Synchronization: X synchronization at 1/60 sec.; M synchronization at 1/30 sec. or slower. Direct contact at accessory shoe for hot-shoe flash. PC socket (JIS-B type) with shock-preventive rim for cord-type flash. Accessory shoe has contact for normal automatic flash plus special contact for AE flash with dedicated Canon Speedlites.
Automatic Flash: Full AE flash photography with specified Canon Speedlites. Shutter speed set automatically. Aperture controlled automatically according to setting of flash when pilot lamp glows.
Back Cover: Opened with rewind knob. Removable, interchange with Databack A. With memo holder.
Film Loading: Via multi-slot take-up spool.
Film Advance Lever: Single-stroke 120° throw with 30° stand-off. Ratchet winding possible.
Frame Counter: Additive type. Automatically resets to "S" upon opening back cover. Counts backwards as film is rewound.
Film Rewind: With rewind button and crank
Other Safety Devices: Camera will not function when power level insufficient. Film winding impossible while shutter is in operation.

Source: mir.com.my


Model

Serial number 1617353


Reference sites

mir.com.my


Manual

English manual

AE-1 Program service manual


Batteries

V28 PX 6V battery

Film


Pictures taken with this machine


Videos

Canon A-1 (1978-1985)

Canon A-1 (1978-1985)

#420

This photo is from the copy I own

History and technical features 

The Canon A-1 is an advanced level single-lens reflex (SLR) 35 mm film camera for use with interchangeable lenses. It was manufactured by Canon Camera K. K. (today Canon Incorporated) in Japan from April 1978 to 1985. It employs a horizontal cloth-curtain focal-plane shutter with a speed range of 30 to 1/1000 second plus bulb and flash synchronization speed of 1/60 second. It has dimensions of 92 millimetres (3.6 in) height, 141 millimetres (5.6 in) width, 48 millimetres (1.9 in) depth and 620 grams (22 oz) weight. Unlike most SLRs of the time, it was available in only one color; all black. The introductory US list price for the body plus Canon FD 50 mm f/1.4 SSC lens was $625, the camera was generally sold with a 30–40% discount (roughly $375 to $435).

The A-1 is a historically significant camera. It was the first SLR to offer an electronically controlled programmed autoexposure mode. Instead of the photographer picking a shutter speed to freeze or blur motion and choosing a lens aperture f-stop to control depth of field (focus), the A-1 has a microprocessor programmed to automatically select a compromise exposure based on light meter input. Virtually all cameras today have at least one program mode.

Beginning with the amateur level Canon AE-1 of 1976, there was a complete overhaul of the entire Canon SLR line. The 1970s and 1980s were an era of intense competition among the major SLR brands: Canon, Nikon, Minolta, Pentax and Olympus. Between 1975 and 1985, there was a dramatic shift away from heavy all-metal manual mechanical camera bodies to much more compact bodies with integrated circuit (IC) electronic automation. In addition, because of rapid advances in electronics, the brands continually leapfrogged each other with models having new or more automatic features, and less expensive components and assembly. The industry was trying to expand out from the saturated high-end professional market and appeal to the large mass of low-end amateur photographers keen to move up from compact automatic leaf shutter rangefinder cameras to the more "glamorous" SLR but were intimidated by the need to learn all the details of operating a traditional SLR.

The A-1 is the high technology standard bearer of the landmark Canon amateur level A-series SLRs. The other members of the A-series are the Canon AE-1 (released 1976), AT-1 (1977), AV-1 (1979), AE-1 Program (1981) and AL-1 (1982). They all use the same compact aluminum alloy chassis, but with differing feature levels and outer cosmetic acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plastic panels. By sharing most major components, and an inexpensive horizontal cloth-curtain shutter, costs could be spread out over a larger production volumes. The A-1 represented Canon's bid to defeat Nikon through more features and the cheapest price.

The A-1 caused a sensation when it was released in early 1978. Most photographers were amazed at its advanced features, years ahead of the competition, but in the face of changing technology, not all comments were positive. Professional photographers worried about the long term reliability of its consumer-level mechanical and electronic components under heavy daily use, the relatively slow flash sync and top shutter speeds. Traditionalist photographers complained about an "excess" of automation ruining the art of photography, a criticism that was leveled at all of the newly automated cameras released in the 1980s. However, automation turned out to be the right way to entice many new amateur photographers on a budget, and paid off very well for Canon.

The Canon A-1 was a runaway best seller, as it offered new SLR buyers considerable features and value for the price. It was reliable for its day in amateur usage. But as competitors brought out their own programmed SLRs,[1] the A-1 began to show its age. This is especially true for its horizontal cloth-curtain shutter, viewfinder information display and autoflash control. The A-1 was due for replacement when the Canon T90 came out in 1985. Canon's abandonment of the FD lens mount for the EOS design also had a significant effect on demand for the A-1 on the used market. But it is still regarded as one of the most fascinating SLRs of its generation and many are still in regular use.

Source: en.wikipedia.org


Specifications

The A-1 accepts any lens with the Canon FD breech lock mount (introduced in 1971) or Canon New FD pseudo-bayonet mount (sometimes called the FDn mount, introduced 1979). It can also use most earlier FL lenses and some even older R (or Canomatic) series lenses, albeit with reduced functionality. This excludes all of Canon's EF bayonet mount autofocus lenses (introduced in 1987). During the late 1970s and 1980s, there were approximately 55 Canon FD lenses available for purchase. They ranged from a 7.5mm f/5.6 fisheye to an FD 800mm f/5.6 telephoto, and included lenses with maximum apertures to f/1.2 and a line of L-series lenses of exceptional quality. Accessories for the A-1 included the Canon motor drive MA (automatic film advance up to 5 frames per second), the Canon Databack A (sequential numbering or date stamping on the film), and the Canon Speedlight 155A (guide number 56/17 (feet/meters) at ASA/ISO 100) and Canon Speedlight 199A (guide number 98/30 (feet/meters) at ASA/ISO 100) electronic flashes.

The A-1 is a battery-powered (one 4LR44 or PX-28) microprocessor-controlled manual-focus SLR with manual exposure control or shutter priority, aperture priority or programmed autoexposure. A fifth mode is "stopped down AE", in which the aperture is closed and alterable by the photographer and the camera selects the shutter speed based on the actual light reading. This differs from aperture priority in which the aperture is not closed until a photograph is taken and the shutter speed is calculated based on the light measured through the fully open aperture. Stopped down AE existed so that old FL lenses could be used with at least some kind of AE, and was also useful for photomicroscopy, manual-aperture lenses, etc. The A-1 is the first SLR to have all four of the now standard PASM exposure modes. It has a viewfinder exposure information system using a six-digit, seven-segment per digit, red alphanumeric LED display on the bottom of the viewfinder to indicate the readings of the built-in centerweighted, silicon photocell light meter. The focusing screen also has Canon's standard split image rangefinder and microprism collar focusing help.

Source: en.wikipedia.org

• Type:35mm focal-plane shutter SLR camera
• Picture Size: 24 x 36 mm
• Normal Lens: Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 SSC, FD 50mm f/1.4 SSC
• Lens Mount: FD mount
• Shutter: Four-axis, horizontal-travel focal-plane shutter with cloth curtains. X, B, 30, 15, 8, 4, 2, 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000 sec. All speeds controlled electronically. Built-in self-timer (with 2- and 10-sec. delay and blinking LED). Multiple exposures enabled with a lever. Electronic shutter release.
• Flash Sync: X-sync automatic-switching sync contacts with German socket and hot shoe.
• Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism. 0.83x magnification, 93.4% vertical coverage, 95.3% horizontal coverage. Split-image rangefinder encircled by microprism rangefinder at center of fresnel matte screen. Eyepiece shutter provided. Six interchangeable focusing screens optional (installed by service personnel). The standard screen was later replaced by the brighter and sharper Laser Matte screen.
• Viewfinder Information: Digital readout with 7-segment red LED for shutter speed, aperture, dedicated Speedlite flash-ready, manual settings, and warning displays.
• Metering & Exposure Control: SPC for TTL full-aperture centerweighted averaging metering or TTL stopped-down metering. Exposure compensation range of 2 EV. AE lock provided. Five AE modes: Shutter speed-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, program AE, preset aperture-priority AE, and Speedlite AE (with dedicated Speedlite). The mode is set with a selector dial. Metering range at ISO 100 and f/1.4: EV -2 – 18. Film speed range from ISO 6 to 12800 in 1/3 steps.
• Power Source: One 4G-13 6 V mercury oxide battery or 4LR44 alkaline battery. Battery check with button and blinking LED.
• Film Loading & Advance: Slotted take-up spool. Advances with camera-top lever’s 120 stroke (partial strokes enabled). Ready position at 30.
• Frame Counter: Counts up. Resets automatically when camera back is opened. Counts down during rewind.
• Film Rewind: Camera-top crank
• Dimensions & Weight:  141 x 92 x 48 mm, 620 g

Source: global.canon


Model

Serial number 430864


Reference sites

en.wikipedia.org

global.canon

mir.com.my


Manual

English manual


Batteries

V28 PX 6V battery

Film

Fujicolor C200/36

Pictures taken with this machine

Canon A-1 (1978-1985) sample 1

Canon A-1 (1978-1985) sample 2

Canon A-1 (1978-1985) sample 3

Videos