The Canon FX is a camera from Canon from the 1960s. It is the first model in the FL series.
The lens of the Canon FX is interchangeable. Lenses with a Canon FL bayonet can be used. The Canon FL 58mm f/1.2 is often found with the 35mm photo camera. It does not have an autofocus.
There is a built-in light meter in the Canon FX. It is designed for an ISO range of 10 to 800. The shutter supports exposure times up to 1/1000 second. If you want to take long exposures, there is the Bulb setting.
The use of an external flash unit is possible via the PC flash socket. The Canon FX also has a built-in self-timer and a connection option for a cable release. Additionally, there is a thread for a tripod.
The Canon FX measures 14.15 x 9.1 x 8.6 cm. It is powered by a 1.3V mercury battery.
Films for the Canon FX
The Canon FX is designed for the popular 35mm format. Therefore, these films are still manufactured and can be specified by almost any developing vendor. A good choice for color photography, for example, is the Kodak Portra 160*. If you want to stay monochrome, the Kodak TRI-X 400* is not bad.
Color film is developed using the C-41 process. This development process is done by all photo labs that offer 35mm film development. Most drugstore chains in Germany offer color film development.
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 FL lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 10 to 800 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/55 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x 1.3 V mercury battery |
| Size | 14,15 x 9,1 x 8,6 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.57 x 3.58 x 3.39 inches |
| Estimated value / Used price | 136,16 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 23 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 115,00 Euro (124.48 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 141,79 Euro (152.62 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 180,00 Euro (194.83 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon FX
Is the Canon FX a manual focus camera?
Yes, the Canon FX does not have autofocus. It's a classic camera from the 1960s, so focusing is done manually. You need to adjust the focus ring on the lens yourself.
What kind of film does this vintage camera use?
The Canon FX uses standard 35mm film, the most common type. Many brands still produce 35mm film, both color and black and white, making it easy to find.
How do I use a flash with the camera?
The Canon FX has a PC flash sync socket, which allows you to connect and trigger an external flash unit. This lets you use different flashes with the camera.
Can I use a tripod with the device?
Yes, the Canon FX has a tripod mount, which is a threaded hole on the bottom. This makes it easy to attach the camera to a tripod for steady long exposures.
What type of battery does the old camera take?
The Canon FX runs on a 1.3V mercury battery. These are becoming harder to find, but some specialty stores may still carry them, or you might need an adapter.