The Carena 100 SX is a reflex camera, developed by Cosina and introduced in the 90s. The camera was sold in West Germany by Photo Porst from Nuremberg. Cosina offered the model as “Cosina C1”.
The lenses of the Carena 100 SX can be exchanged. For this purpose the camera is equipped with a Pentax K lens mount. There is no autofocus with the 35mm camera. You have to focus on the subject by hand.
The Carena 100 SX has an integrated light meter. The exposure meter was designed for films with ISO value between 25 and 3200. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure when it measures through the lens (TTL). The shutter speed and aperture can be selected by the photographer.
The camera has a bulb mode. The 35mm camera comes with a thread for a tripod. It is also possible to use a cable release.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 13,8 x 8,8 x 5,8 cm. The weight of the Carena 100 SX is 370 grams. The power source of the 35mm camera are two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Carena 100 SX
The Carena 100 SX was built for the 35mm format. The 35mm format is the most common film format. Therefore, some manufacturers still produce for this format. A great film choice for color photos is the Kodak Gold 200* and for black and white pictures the Ilford XP2 Super*.
Both films are well suited for everyday use and do well in test reports. Other suitable films are also offered by Foma, Rollei and Adox, among others. The colour film is developed using the C-41 process. It is common for developing labs to be able to use the C-41 process. The development steps for black and white film are slightly different from those for colour film. With the proper instructions and photochemistry, it can also be developed at home.
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 | Pentax K lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Size | 13,8 x 8,8 x 5,8 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.43 x 3.46 x 2.28 inches |
| Weight | 370 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Cosina |
| Estimated value / Used price | 47,67 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 8, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 48,71 Euro (51.96 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Carena 100 SX
Is the Carena 100 SX an automatic camera?
No, it's a manual focus camera. You have to manually adjust the focus yourself. The camera does, however, have a built-in light meter to help with exposure.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The Carena 100 SX uses interchangeable lenses. It has a Pentax K bayonet mount, so you can use lenses designed for that system.
How does the light meter work on this 35mm camera?
It has a through-the-lens (TTL) metering system. This means the light meter measures the light through the lens, providing a reading for correct exposure.
Can I use a flash with the Cosina C1?
Yes, it has a hot shoe for connecting an external flash. You can also use a cable release and it has a tripod mount.
What type of film does this SLR camera use?
It's designed for 35mm film, the most common film format. You can use color or black and white film; many brands are compatible.