Carena CX-300

The Carena CX-300 is a classic 35mm camera, the Carena CX-300. It was offered by the German company Photo Porst. The model in this article was produced by Cosina. The Japanese company offered a functionally identical model, the Cosina CT-1 EX.

Another version was offered under the same name. It is based on the Cosina CT-1 G. It can be identified by its maximum exposure time of 1/1000 second.

Lens

The K-mount provides access to a wide range of lenses. Focus is adjusted manually on the lens, while the viewfinder, with its clear split-image and microprism focusing aids, facilitates precise adjustment.

Exposure Settings

The camera features a center-weighted TTL exposure metering system. Once activated, three simple LEDs in the viewfinder guide the photographer to the correct exposure, which is achieved by adjusting the shutter speed (1/2000s to 1s plus bulb) and the aperture. The film speed, from ISO 25 to 1600, is preselected on the body.

Flash System

A universal hot shoe is available for shooting in low light. This works with external flash units with a maximum sync speed of 1/125th of a second.

Additional Features

Other practical details include a tripod mount on the bottom, a frame counter that automatically resets when changing film, and a transport lever that also serves as a shutter release lock.

Dimensions and Weight

Weighing 410 grams and measuring 133 x 85 x 50 mm, the body presents itself as a handy and robust unit.

Power Supply

While the light meter relies on two small LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*), the rest of the camera operates purely mechanically. This ensures high reliability, even when the batteries are empty.

Film Recommendations

The camera uses any commercially available 35mm film (eBay / Amazon*). Since it does not have automatic DX detection, its ISO sensitivity must always be adjusted manually using the command dial.