The Canon F-1N is a 35mm camera. The SLR was introduced by Canon in 1976. It is the successor of the Canon F-1, although it could be called an update of the legendary camera.
The changes to the camera, which is still compatible with the F-1 accessories, are minimal. For example, the mechanical film transport has been speeded up and the possible film speed has been increased from ISO 2000 to ISO 3200. Also, an attachment to the flash socket has been added to prevent the PC cable from coming loose. In all, thirteen optimizations were made over the old F-1.
In 1978, a color variation model of the model, the Canon OD F-1, was introduced. OD stands for olive-drab, the color of the camera’s body, which was reminiscent of the U.S. Army.
The lens of the Canon F-1N is interchangeable. Lenses with a Canon FD bayonet can be used. The lens is focused manually. The Canon F-1N does not have an autofocus.
For photography, the Canon F-1N has a light meter. It is designed for shooting film with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 3200. As with most SLR cameras, the exposure is metered through the lens. Both the desired aperture and the shutter speed can be set by the user.
The fastest possible shutter speed is 1/2000 second. There is a bulb mode for long exposures.
The 35mm camera has a built-in self-timer. Additionally, there is a connection for a cable release and a thread for a tripod. The use of a flash is possible via the PC flash socket.
With a size of 14.7 x 10 x 5 cm, the Canon F-1N weighs 845 grams. The camera requires a 1.35 V mercury battery.
Films for the Canon F-1N
35mm films are exposed in the Canon F-1N. 35mm film is still readily available today and is developed by most photo labs. Nice films for black and white or color images are the AgfaPhoto APX 100* and the Fujifilm Superia 400*.
The color negative film is developed using the C-41 development process. This development process is offered by most laboratories. For example, something the major drugstore chains in Germany offer the development of color film.
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 | Interchangeable pentaprism viewfinder |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x 1.35 V mercury battery |
| Size | 14,7 x 10 x 5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.79 x 3.94 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 845 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 329,20 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 98 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 336,33 Euro (363.69 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 328,19 Euro (355.03 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 395,56 Euro (427.55 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon F-1N
Is the Canon F-1N a digital camera or does it use film?
The Canon F-1N is a film camera, specifically a 35mm film camera. It uses traditional film rolls, which need to be developed after shooting. This makes it quite different from modern digital cameras.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
The Canon F-1N has manual focus. You'll need to adjust the focus ring on the lens yourself to get sharp images. There's no autofocus feature on this model.
What kind of batteries does the camera need?
The Canon F-1N uses a 1.35V mercury battery. These are becoming harder to find, and you might need to use a suitable replacement battery.
Can I use a flash with this SLR camera?
Yes, you can use a flash with the Canon F-1N. It has a PC flash sync terminal for connecting external flashes. This lets you take photos in low-light conditions.
What's the fastest shutter speed on the camera?
The fastest shutter speed on the Canon F-1N is 1/2000th of a second. This is useful for freezing fast-moving subjects, but it also has a bulb mode for long exposures.