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.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Canon FD lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | SBC light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 6 to 12800 |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x 4LR44 battery |
| Size | 14,1 x 9,2 x 4,8 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.55 x 3.62 x 1.89 inches |
| Weight | 620 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| End of production | 1985 |
| Production duration | 7 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 203,85 Euro 332,86298,97198,981582,85174,4633483,372375,53218,79 Estimate based on used prices of 100 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of 6.5.2024 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 201,78 Euro (217.56 US-Dollar) |
In my years as a war photographer, I’ve had the privilege – and sometimes the misfortune – to bear witness to some of the most significant moments in modern history. My trusty companion through many of those harrowing times was none other than the Canon A-1.
I remember one particular incident vividly. Amid the chaotic streets of a city torn apart by conflict, the air thick with the acrid smell of gunpowder, I was trying to capture the resilient spirit of its people. There was a brief moment when a child, unaware of the perils surrounding her, smiled and offered a flower to a soldier. It was the split second that defined the inexplicable human ability to find hope even in the darkest times.
It was the Canon A-1 that caught that fleeting instant. No need for complex settings, no time wasted. Just the pure, raw emotion of the moment, immortalized on film.
That camera was more than just a tool; it became an extension of me, bearing the scratches and dents of our shared experiences. Its reliability in those high-pressure situations allowed me to focus on the essence of my job: to tell stories that needed to be told.
It’s been years since that day and many cameras have come and gone in my life. But when I think of trust, resilience, and capturing raw emotion, it’s always the Canon A-1 that holds a special place in my heart.