Argus/Cosina EC 2000

The Argus/Cosina EC 2000 is a SLR camera from the 1970s. It was offered by the American brand Argus. As the name suggests, it was produced by Cosina in Japan. The Cosina Hi-Lite EC also offers the same range of functions.

Lens Mount and Focusing

The heart of this camera is its M42 screw thread. This universal mount, with a diameter of 42 mm and a thread pitch of 1 mm, opens up access to a huge selection of interchangeable lenses from various manufacturers, giving the photographer enormous creative freedom.

Focusing is done entirely manually by turning the focusing ring on the lens. A cross microprism ring located centrally in the viewfinder provides valuable assistance in facilitating correct focusing.

A special feature is the working aperture function: Pressing the shutter button halfway down closes the aperture to the preselected value, allowing a preview of the depth of field. To maximize the viewfinder image for refocusing, press the separate aperture release button next to the self-timer.

Exposure Metering and Shutter Control

The EC 2000 features an advanced exposure system with TTL (through-the-lens) average metering. A silicon photocell precisely measures the light entering the lens.

The camera is designed as an aperture priority camera: The photographer selects the desired aperture on the lens, and the camera electronics automatically determine the appropriate shutter speed. This functionality is rather rare for M42 SLRs.

A needle indicator on the left edge of the viewfinder informs the photographer of the selected shutter speed. The electronically controlled Copal focal plane shutter operates continuously in automatic mode over an impressive range from 2 seconds to an extremely fast 1/2000 of a second.

For complete creative control, the camera also offers a fully manual mode. Here, both aperture and shutter speed are selected by the photographer. Manual shutter speeds range from B (bulb) to 1/2000 of a second. The light meter also assists in this mode by indicating when the combination of aperture and shutter speed is correct.

For long exposures, the B setting is available, where a locking lever can lock the shutter release in the pressed position.

The Flash System

The camera is well-equipped for the use of flash units. It features a central hot shoe on the prism housing for wireless synchronization. Additionally, there are two separate connectors for cables: an X connector for modern electronic flash units and an FP connector for older flash bulbs.

When using a flash, the shutter speed is manually set to the sync speed of 1/125 second, clearly marked as “125(x)” on the command dial.

Other Features and Useful Details

The camera offers a number of well-thought-out details that simplify everyday photography. A mechanical self-timer on the front allows shots to be taken with a delay of approximately 10 seconds.

The quick-return mirror ensures that the viewfinder image is immediately visible again after the shot. An automatic exposure counter counts the shots and resets itself when the back is opened.

A film type indicator serves as a memory aid, allowing you to set the film type (e.g., slide, color negative).

A film plane marker is also located on the top for precise macro shots.

A standard tripod thread on the bottom and a thread in the shutter button for mechanical cable releases round out the features.

Body, Dimensions, and Weight

The Argus/Cosina EC 2000 is solidly built. The camera body alone weighs a substantial 730 grams, giving it a high-quality and robust feel.

The final dimensions and total weight vary depending on the M42 lens attached. When using a Cosina 55 mm f/1.4, it would be approximately 14.5 x 9.8 x 9.2 cm.

Power Supply and Battery Test

A 6-volt silver oxide battery (e.g., type 4G-13, Eveready 544, or PX28) is required for exposure metering and the electronic shutter. The charge level can be conveniently checked at any time using the battery check button (“B.C.”), with a needle in the viewfinder indicating the status. It is important to note that the purely mechanical shutter speeds also work without a battery, but then exposure metering is no longer required.

Film Format and Sensitivity

The camera uses standard 35mm film (eBay / Amazon*). The film speed must be set manually using a ring below the shutter speed dial and ranges from ASA 25 to ASA 1600.

Low-sensitivity films (ASA 25-100) are ideal for bright light and produce the finest grain. Medium-sensitivity films (ASA 200-400) are perfect all-rounders for most situations. High-sensitivity films (ASA 800-1600) are suitable for low-light shooting or sports photography, but produce more visible film grain.

Quick Guide: Getting Started

1. Preparation: Check the battery status and set the correct film speed (ASA value) on the adjustment ring.
2. Loading Film: Open the back, insert the film, thread the film tab onto the take-up spool, close the back, and advance to the first frame.
3. Shooting (Automatic): Set the shutter speed dial to “AUTO” and select the desired aperture on the lens.
4. Focusing and Shooting: Look through the viewfinder, focus on the subject, lightly press the shutter button to measure the exposure, and then press the shutter button fully to take the picture.
5. Film Advance: After each shot, pull the film advance lever to advance to the next frame.
6. Film Remove: When the film is full, press the rewind button on the bottom of the camera and use the crank to rewind the film completely into the cartridge.