The Canon A-1 is an SLR camera. It was produced in Japan from 1978 to 1985. It is without question the top model in the A series, although it is not the first model in the series. The original price of the camera at the time was 83,000 yen for the body only.
The lens of the Canon A-1 is interchangeable. For this purpose, a Canon FD bayonet was installed. In most cases, you'll find the Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 SSC on the camera. There is no autofocus function on the camera. The focus is set manually.
The camera has a built-in light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 6 to ISO 12800. The SLR determines the exposure by metering through the lens (TTL). Noteworthy on this model are the exposure modes (aperture priority, shutter speed priority and program automatic). However, there is also a manual mode. The range of selectable exposure times is particularly large on this model, going from 1/1000 sec to 30 sec.
A bulb mode is available for long exposures. Here, the shutter can remain open for a variable time. There is also a switch for multiple exposures.
An external flash can be connected to the Hot Shoe. In addition, there is a PC flash socket.
Films for the Canon A-1
The Canon A-1 was built for the 35mm format. 35mm film is still made and is developed without problems at most photo labs. The Agfaphoto Vista 400* is a possible color film for the Canon A-1. Black and white images are possible with the Ilford HP5*.
On a normal photo film (135-36) thus fit around 36 images. The film in the camera must be rewound manually. With the additional winder, however, the film can also be advanced automatically. The winder (Motor Drive MA) manages up to 5 frames per second.
The 35mm camera has a thread for a tripod. In addition, there is a connection for a cable release and a self-timer. The dimensions of the black housing of the 35 mm camera are 14.1 x 9.2 x 4.8 cm. At the same time are weighs 620 grams. The power source of the 35mm camera are one LR44 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
The Canon A-1 is no longer in production. The used price of the 35mm camera depends on its condition and functionality, but it is much higher than the current A-series models.
