The Revue ML is a SLR camera. It was produced by VEB Pentacon in the GDR from 1984 to 1986. It was sold by Foto Quelle in West Germany under their own brand name. The East German “Original” was the “Praktica MTL 5”.
The Revue ML offers the possibility of interchangeable lenses. Lenses with an M42 thread can be used. In most cases, the Revuenon 1.8/50 MC car can be seen on the camera. The Revue ML does not have an autofocus function. The focus is set manually.
In the Revue ML an exposure meter was integrated. The exposure measurement is performed through the lens. The aperture and shutter speed can be freely selected. The camera comes with a bulb setting. The shutter can remain open for a variable time. You can use the camera with a Hot Shoe or PC-Flash flash unit.
Films for the Revue ML
The Revue ML must be equipped with 35mm films. 35mm films are still produced by different manufacturers. Nice films for black-and-white or color images are the Ilford XP2 Super* and the Agfaphoto Vista 200*.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. The C-41 process is offered by almost all photo labs.
The Revue ML has a built-in self-timer. It also comes with a thread for a cable release and tripod. The power supply for the 35mm camera is provided by one VARTA V 625 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
The 35mm camera can today only found in used condition. The condition determine mainly the price for the camera today.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| 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 | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x Varta 625 battery |
| Company name of the brand | Foto Quelle |
| Manufacturer | VEB Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| End of production | 1986 |
| Production duration | 2 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 51,90 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 49 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 47,00 Euro (50.87 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 56,44 Euro (60.61 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 57,04 Euro (61.70 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Revue ML
Is the Revue ML a digital or film camera?
The Revue ML is a film camera. It uses 35mm film, which is still readily available from various manufacturers. You'll need to get it developed at a photo lab.
How do I focus the Revue ML?
This camera doesn't have autofocus. You need to manually adjust the focus using the lens's focusing ring. It takes some practice but becomes easy.
Can I use different lenses with my Revue ML?
Yes, the Revue ML accepts interchangeable lenses with an M42 screw mount. The most common lens you'll find with it is the Auto Revuenon 1.8/50 MC.
Does this old camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, the Revue ML has a built-in light meter that measures light through the lens. You can then manually set the aperture and shutter speed.
Where can I get batteries for the Revue ML?
The Revue ML uses a VARTA V625 battery. These are readily available online or sometimes in camera shops. It's a common battery type for older cameras.