The Canonflex is an SLR camera from 1959. It is the first SLR camera from the Canon Camera Co. which previously specialized in the production of rangefinder cameras.
The lenses of the Canonflex are interchangeable. For this purpose, a Canon R bayonet was built into the camera. In most cases, it was sold with the Canon Super-Canomatic R50 f:1.8. There is no autofocus function on the Canonflex.
The camera does not have a built-in light meter. However, there is an additional attachment with a selenium metering cell.
You can choose from values from 1/1000 second to 1 second. There is also a Bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter is opened as long as the shutter release button is pressed. The aperture values that can be set depend on the lens, of course.
An external flash can be connected to the PC flash socket.
A thread for a tripod is built into the Canonflex. Additionally, there is a connection for a cable release and a self-timer. With a size of 14.5 x 9.2 x 4.7 cm, the Canonflex weighs 940 grams.
A power source is not needed for taking pictures. All functions are mechanical.
Films for the Canonflex
The Canonflex requires photographic film to take pictures. More precisely, 35mm films are needed. 35mm films are still made and are developed without problems at most photo labs. A good choice for the Canonflex is the Kodak Portra 400* (color film) and the Kodak T-Max 400* (black and white film).
The development process for the color film is the C-41 process. C-41 films are developed by almost all photo labs. For example, you can take your films to many drugstores in Germany to be developed. The B/W film can be processed in a developer like Rodinal, XTOL or D-76. Or you can give it directly to a professional developing lab.
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 R lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| 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 | Not necessary |
| Size | 14,5 x 9,2 x 4,7 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.71 x 3.62 x 1.85 inches |
| Weight | 940 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 193,35 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 17 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 291,61 Euro (314.98 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 193,38 Euro (208.90 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 189,96 Euro (204.57 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canonflex
Is the Canonflex an automatic camera?
No, the Canonflex is a fully mechanical camera. It doesn't have autofocus or an internal light meter. All settings are adjusted manually.
What kind of lenses does this camera use?
The Canonflex uses interchangeable lenses with a Canon R bayonet mount. It was often sold with the Canon Super-Canomatic R50 f:1.8 lens.
How do I take long exposure shots with the Canonflex?
The Canonflex has a bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter stays open as long as you hold down the shutter release button, allowing for long exposures.
Can I use a flash with the Canonflex?
Yes, it has a PC flash sync socket for connecting an external flash. Remember that you'll need a separate flash unit.
What type of film does the Canonflex use?
The Canonflex uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films work well, and processing is readily available.