In the compact film camera space, various rugged models were introduced in the late 1980s, designed to withstand the elements. These models included the Chinon Splash AF.
The Chinon Splash AF comes with a very eye-catching design. The body of the camera features rubber grommets all around the lens and film door, giving it a very sturdy and sturdy look.
At first glance, you might mistake it for an underwater camera, but it’s important to note that the camera is splash-proof, not waterproof. That means it’s rated for light rain or accidental splashes, but isn’t designed for underwater photography.
At the heart of the Chinon Splash AF is its 35mm f/3.9 lens, a construction of three elements organized into three distinct groups.
The camera is equipped with a programmed electronic shutter and operates at speeds between 1/90 and 1/410 of a second. Such speed parameters suggest that the Splash AF thrives in the sun or in well-lit environments.
The Splash is equipped with an autofocus system. This system adjusts the focus automatically. A minimum distance of 1.3 meters to the subject is necessary for sharp images.
Although the built-in flash is a bit modest with a guide number of 10, it holds up remarkably well, especially for close-up shots. The flash covers a range of between 1.3 and 3.5 meters.
The light meter is designed for DX-coded films and supports a wide ISO range from 100 to 1000. For films without the coding, a default sensitivity of ISO 100 is chosen.
Powered by two readily available AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*), the Splash AF ensures photographers are never caught off-guard. This easily interchangeable power solution makes the camera the first choice for travelers and wanderlust travelers. The batteries are necessary for the flash and the automatic film transport, among other things.
With a size of 140 x 77 x 53 mm and a weight of 370 grams, the Splash AF is all about compactness.
Films for the Chinon Splash AF
The Chinon Splash AF exposes 35mm film. Films of this format are still easy to get today and are still being developed. Films with a sensitivity between ISO 100 and ISO 1000 that are equipped with a DX coding should be used.
Possible films for the automatic camera are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color images and the Ilford XP2 Super* for black and white images. Both photo films are good for taking pictures in everyday life or on vacation and can convince in test reports.
Variants
There were several variants of the original Splash AF model. Among them the Splash AF 2, which was essentially the same camera with a black body and transparent shutter water barrier. Another variant, the Chinon Splash GX, kept the same body design but switched to a fixed focus system instead of autofocus.
In addition, the camera found a market outside of its brand name and was sold by Foto-Quelle as the Revue AW600.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.9 |
| Minimum focus distance | 130 cm / 4.264 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Lens design | 3 elements in 3 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/410 second to 1/90 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 1000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,3 to 3,5 Meter / 4.27 to 11.48 Feet |
| Flash recycle time | circa 5 seconds |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 14 x 7,7 x 5,3 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.51 x 3.03 x 2.09 inches |
| Weight | 370 Grams |
FAQ about the Chinon Splash AF
What type of lens does the Chinon Splash AF utilize?
It features a 35mm f/3.9 lens, a three-element design arranged in three groups. This lens is suitable for various shooting situations, especially in bright conditions.
Is this compact camera waterproof or just splashproof?
The Chinon Splash AF is splashproof, meaning it can withstand light rain or accidental splashes. It's not designed for underwater use.
How does the autofocus system of the camera work and what is its minimum focusing distance?
The camera uses an automatic focus system. To achieve sharp images, a minimum distance of 1.3 meters between the subject and the lens is required.
What kind of power source does the compact camera need to operate?
The camera is powered by two readily available AA batteries, which are essential for the flash and automatic film advance.
What film types are compatible with this model?
The Chinon Splash AF uses 35mm film. It's best to use DX-coded films with an ISO sensitivity between 100 and 1000. Examples include Kodak Ultramax 400 and Ilford XP2 Super.