canonflex-single-lens-reflex-camera-bnv

Canonflex

The Canonflex is an SLR camera from 1959. It is the first SLR camera from the Canon Camera Co. which previously specialized in the production of rangefinder cameras.

The lenses of the Canonflex are interchangeable. For this purpose, a Canon R bayonet was built into the camera. In most cases, it was sold with the Canon Super-Canomatic R50 f:1.8. There is no autofocus function on the Canonflex.

The camera does not have a built-in light meter. However, there is an additional attachment with a selenium metering cell.

You can choose from values from 1/1000 second to 1 second. There is also a Bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter is opened as long as the shutter release button is pressed. The aperture values that can be set depend on the lens, of course.

An external flash can be connected to the PC flash socket.

A thread for a tripod is built into the Canonflex. Additionally, there is a connection for a cable release and a self-timer. With a size of 14.5 x 9.2 x 4.7 cm, the Canonflex weighs 940 grams.

A power source is not needed for taking pictures. All functions are mechanical.

Films for the Canonflex

The Canonflex requires photographic film to take pictures. More precisely, 35mm films are needed. 35mm films are still made and are developed without problems at most photo labs. A good choice for the Canonflex is the Kodak Portra 400* (color film) and the Kodak T-Max 400* (black and white film).

The development process for the color film is the C-41 process. C-41 films are developed by almost all photo labs. For example, you can take your films to many drugstores in Germany to be developed. The B/W film can be processed in a developer like Rodinal, XTOL or D-76. Or you can give it directly to a professional developing lab.

Technical Specifications

camera_spec
Property Specification
Film format 35mm
Picture Format 36 mm x 24 mm
Lens type Interchangeable lens
Shutter Speeds 1/1000 to 1 second
Bulb Mode Yes
Adjustable aperture Yes
Adjustable shutter speed Yes
Auto exposure Yes
Flash Connector PC-Flash
Flash Sync Speed 1/55 second
Tripod Mount Yes
Cable Release Thread Yes
Self-timer Yes
Size 14.5 x 9.2 x 4.7 cm
Dimensions in Inches 5.71 x 3.62 x 1.85 inches
Weight 940 grams
Release Date 1959
Age Up to 67 years
Production start 1959
Manufacturer Canon

Used Prices

The current average price for this camera is 220,16 € based on 19 offers, as of 6.7.2026.

Average Price per Year

  • 2026: 164,16 €
  • 2025: 189,50 €
  • 2024: 195,04 €
  • 2023: 287,16 €

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ about the Canonflex

Is the Canonflex an automatic camera?

What kind of lenses does this camera use?

How do I take long exposure shots with the Canonflex?

Can I use a flash with the Canonflex?

What type of film does the Canonflex use?

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