The Kmart Focal TLX is an SLR camera. It was manufactured by Cosina and presented in the 1960s. The model is based on the Ricoh Singlex TLS.
The Kmart Corporation is a chain of stores from the United States and was at times one of the largest retailers in the country. Under the name “Focal” the chain offered various cameras and accessories. Later the company was bought by the competitor Sears.
The Kmart Focal TLX lenses are interchangeable. This is made possible by the M42 thread. There are many screw-on lenses available for the M42 lens mount.
The first M42 lens was invented by Zeiss. Zeiss, Pentacon and Pentax were among others big producers of M42 lenses. There is no autofocus with the 35mm camera. You have to focus on the subject by hand.
The 35 mm camera has an exposure meter. It is designed for an ISO range from 25 to 1600. The reflex camera determines the correct exposure by measuring through the lens (TTL). Both the desired f-number and the exposure time can be set by the user.
If you want to take long time pictures, there is the bulb setting. Via the PC flash socket the use of an external flash is possible. If you wish, you can trigger the Kmart Focal TLX with the built-in self-timer or cable release. The ability to use a tripod provides the necessary stability.
The dimensions of the 35 mm camera are 14.8 x 9.2 x 5.3 cm. It weighs 720 grams. The power source of the 35mm camera is a PX675 1.35V mercury battery.
Films for the Kmart Focal TLX
35mm film is exposed in the Kmart Focal TLX. This type of film is still in production and can be easily processed by most photo labs. Beautiful 35mm films for color or black and white images are the Kodak Gold 200* and the AgfaPhoto APX 100*.
The color film is processed in the C-41 process. This development process is available at almost every photo lab. For example, you can deliver your films to many drugstores in Germany for developing.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 1600 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x 1.35 V mercury battery |
| Size | 14,8 x 9,2 x 5,3 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.83 x 3.62 x 2.09 inches |
| Weight | 720 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Cosina |
FAQ about the Kmart Focal TLX
Is this camera a digital or film camera?
The Kmart Focal TLX is a film camera, specifically a 35mm camera. It uses 35mm film rolls, which are still available today. You'll need to get the film developed at a photo lab.
How do I focus the lens?
This camera doesn't have autofocus. You have to manually focus the lens by turning the focusing ring until the image is sharp. It's a good way to learn about photography!
What kind of lenses can I use with the Kmart Focal TLX?
The Kmart Focal TLX uses M42 screw mount lenses. This is a very popular mount, so lots of lenses are available from various manufacturers like Zeiss and Pentax.
Does it have a built-in light meter?
Yes, the camera has a built-in TTL light meter that helps you determine the correct exposure. You can manually adjust both aperture and shutter speed to fine-tune your settings.
Can I use a flash with this camera?
Yes, you can use an external flash. The camera has a PC flash sync socket for connecting an external flash unit. You could also use the built-in self-timer.