The Arico Panorama CL-168 is a cheap camera for 35mm photography. Its body is made of plastic and is of Chinese manufacture. Similar models were offered under various names and brands.
Haking from Hong Kong could be the producer. However, another company with production facilities in China could also have taken over the production. One option would be New Taiwan Photographic Corp (Ouyama), which had a production facility in Shenzhen and produced cameras.
Features of the camera
The feature list of the Arico Panorama CL-168 is straightforward as there are not many special features to mention. It offers a fixed focal length, probably of 28 mm. The aperture as well as the shutter speed are fixed.
A light meter is missing. Also lacking is an autofocus. By default, the focus is between 1 metre and infinity. To get relatively clear photos, the distance to the object should be at least 1 metre.
The camera does not need batteries and all features are mechanical. Options such as flash, tripod connection or self-timer are missing. However, there is an attachment option for a hand strap.
The panorama option
In the marketing of the camera, the panorama function was the main focus. However, it is not a true panorama camera.
A standard 35 mm camera exposes 24 mm x 36 mm. The Arico Panorama CL-168, on the other hand, exposes 13 mm x 36 mm. This format makes the image look like a panorama, especially if the photo is printed accordingly.
This format is created by an aperture in the camera that covers parts of the image. Theoretically, one could remove this plastic aperture and expose 24 mm x 36 mm again. However, the simple viewfinder still shows the panorama format.
Many compact cameras of this era had such a panorama function. Often you could switch between standard and panoramic shots.
For such panoramas, one could alternatively use software to crop the image.
Films for the Arico Panorama CL-168
The camera can still be used, of course. 35mm film is used in the Arico Panorama CL-168. Even nowadays, 35mm films are produced and can be developed by most service providers.
Suitable films for the Arico Panorama CL-168 are the Kodak Gold 200* for colour shots and the Ilford HP5* for black and white shots. There are of course many other films that are compatible with this camera. Both films offer reliable results with a capacity of 36 images. Other films are offered by brands such as Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei, Foma and Lomography.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Thumbwheel |
| Picture format | 13 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 28 mm |
| Widest aperture | - |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Panorama function | Yes |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Manufacturer | Haking |
| Country of production | China |
FAQ about the Arico Panorama CL-168
What type of film does this inexpensive 35mm camera use?
The Arico Panorama CL-168 uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films are compatible, offering a capacity of 36 exposures.
Does the camera have any automatic features like autofocus or a light meter?
No, this simple camera is entirely mechanical. It lacks autofocus and a built-in light meter; focusing is fixed between 1 meter and infinity.
How does the 'panorama' function of this budget-friendly device actually work?
It's not a true panoramic camera. A mask inside the Arico Panorama CL-168 reduces the image area to 13mm x 36mm, creating a panoramic effect.
Is the Arico Panorama CL-168 made of metal or plastic?
The camera body is constructed from plastic and its production originated in China. The exact manufacturer is uncertain, but possibilities include Haking or New Taiwan Photographic Corp.
What is the lens's focal length on this compact camera?
The Arico Panorama CL-168 has a fixed focal length lens, likely 28mm. Aperture and shutter speed are also fixed, offering basic functionality.