The Canon Pellix is an SLR camera from the Japanese manufacturer Canon. It was introduced in 1965. The biggest novelty was the metering of the exposure through the lens.
Exposure metering through the lens (TTL) was made possible by the development of a semi-transparent mirror.This is permanently installed and splits the light falling through the lens. About two-thirds reaches the film and the rest is reflected to the viewfinder.
The biggest advantage of this design is that the mirror does not have to move. This makes for less risk of camera shake and quieter operation. In addition, the photographer has the subject in view even while taking the picture. The biggest disadvantage of a pellicle mirror is that it reduces the amount of light available. For this reason, the fast Canon FL 58mm f/1.2 is often found with the camera. Another disadvantage is the risk of contamination, any stain on the mirror is also visible on the pictures.
In 1966, a revised version of the camera model was introduced with the Pellix QL. This one is mainly characterized by Quick Load feature that simplifies film loading.
The lenses of the Canon Pellix are interchangeable. It comes with a Canon FL bayonet. There is no autofocus on this lens bayonet.
The exposure meter is built for film with a sensitivity of ISO 10 to ISO 800. The aperture and exposure time can be freely set by the photographer. Shutter speeds up to 1/1000 second are available for selection.
The camera also has a Bulb mode. This allows the shutter to remain open for a variable amount of time. The shutter curtain is made of metal, as prolonged light incidence through the lens is likely, and so for example the sun would burn holes in a fabric curtain.
An external flash can be connected to the PC flash socket and attached to the cold shoe. The Canon Pellix has a built-in self-timer. It also comes with a port for a cable release and tripod.
The body of the camera measures 14.1 x 9 x 10 cm. The power source for the light meter is a 1.3V mercury battery.
Films for the Canon Pellix
Required for the Canon Pellix are photographic films. Used are films for the 35mm format. The 35mm format is very common, so even today there are some manufacturers and many developing laboratories. A good choice for the Canon Pellix is the Kodak Gold 200* (color film) and the AgfaPhoto APX 100* (black and white film).
The value of a used copy is mainly measured by its condition and functionality. Because of its unusual features, the camera still fetches quite high prices today.
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 | 14,1 x 9 x 10 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.55 x 3.54 x 3.94 inches |
| Estimated value / Used price | 227,79 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 8 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 270,74 Euro (292.25 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 406,00 Euro (439.45 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 302,05 Euro (326.88 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon Pellix
How does the Canon Pellix measure light?
It uses a unique system with a built-in pellicle mirror. This mirror splits the incoming light, sending some to the film and some to the viewfinder. This allows through-the-lens (TTL) metering.
Is the lens interchangeable on this camera?
Yes, the Canon Pellix uses interchangeable lenses. It has a Canon FL bayonet mount, though it's important to note that it doesn't have autofocus.
What kind of film does the camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films are compatible. You can easily find 35mm film from various manufacturers.
Does the camera have any special features?
It has a self-timer and connections for a cable release and tripod. Additionally, it features a bulb mode, allowing for long exposures. It also has a cold shoe for external flashes.
What are the shutter speeds available on the camera?
The camera offers a range of shutter speeds, going up to 1/1000th of a second. It also includes a bulb mode for longer exposures, where the shutter stays open for as long as you hold the button.