The Olympus O-Product, an exclusive snapshot camera released in a limited edition of 20,000 worldwide, 10,000 in Japan and 10,000 in the rest of the world, was launched by Olympus in 1988 as a special 35mm camera. It was characterized by its retro design and aluminum cladding. The original design comes from Naoki Sakai, who works at Water Design. Interestingly, the internal components were based on those of the Olympus Infinity Jr. model.
Camera functions
This unique camera has a fixed lens with a focal length of 35mm and a maximum aperture of f/3.5. This is protected by an integrated lens cap that opens automatically when the camera is switched on. It is also equipped with an autofocus system that delivers optimal results at a minimum distance of 65 cm from the subject. Additionally, the shutter button is unusually located right next to the lens on the front of the camera.
The Olympus O-Product is not only a visual highlight, but also technically sophisticated. A built-in exposure meter optimized for films with an ISO sensitivity of 25 to 1600 is integrated into the camera. The camera's technology can determine the film speed itself, relying on the DX coding on the film cartridge. The ISO setting points are ISO 50, 100, 400 and 800. The aperture and exposure time are set fully automatically by the camera; manual adjustment is not possible.
According to the official operating instructions, the camera weighs around 310 grams and measures 9.9 x 8.2 x 4.5 cm. To function, it requires two AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). A characteristic feature of the camera is the matching, removable flash unit, which is made of plastic and is connected to the camera with a short rubber cable.
The flash is powered by AAA battery or CR123A battery or DL123A battery. The flash charging time is 2.5 seconds (CR123A and DL123A) or around 4 seconds (AAA battery). The range is 0.65 m to 4.5 m at ISO 100.
Films for the Olympus O-Product
According to the operating instructions, the Olympus O-Product is designed for 35mm films. The 35 mm films are still available from various manufacturers. For example, you can use the Kodak Portra 160* for color recordings, while the Ilford HP5* proves to be an excellent choice for black and white recordings. In addition to those mentioned, there are other producers who offer suitable film material for this camera model.
The color films are developed using the C-41 process, a service offered by many photo labs. In Germany, for example, the development of 35 mm color films is possible in most drugstores. The exposure area of this 35mm camera is 24 mm x 36 mm and the film is transported fully automatically using a built-in motor.
Camera value
Although the Olympus O-Product can currently only be found on the used market, its value is largely determined by the condition and functionality of the respective example. Note that half of the units produced were reserved for the Japanese home market, which may limit their availability. Today you pay an average of 698,01 € for a copy.
