Cosina CT-1 EX

The Cosina CT-1 EX SLR camera was produced by the Japanese company Cosina. It was marketed under the names Vivitar V335, Exakta HS-10, Carena CX-300, and Miranda MS-1N.

Lens

A key feature of the camera is its interchangeable lens system. It uses the widely used Pentax K bayonet, allowing for easy lens changes and access to a huge range of compatible lenses from various manufacturers.

The camera does not have an autofocus function; focusing is done entirely manually by turning the focusing ring on the lens.

The viewfinder is equipped with several aids to assist manual focusing. In addition to the overall impression of the focusing screen, a central microprism ring, which flickers when out of focus, and a horizontal split-image indicator are helpful. This divides the subject into two offset halves when out of focus, which merge into a single line when the focus is correct.

With low-light lenses (with an aperture of less than f/5.6), the split-image indicator may dim, which is a normal physical property.

Exposure Settings

This model features an integrated TTL (Through-The-Lens) exposure metering system, an important component of the camera. It measures the amount of light directly through the lens and is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600. Metering is center-weighted, which leads to reliable results in most shooting situations.

The camera allows the user to select the shutter speed and aperture according to their individual needs. After activating the meter by tapping the shutter button, three LEDs in the viewfinder indicate the correct exposure.

The photographer sets the exposure time (from 1 second to 1/2000 second) on the shutter speed dial and the aperture on the lens so that the green LED lights up.

For long exposures, there is a Bulb mode (‘B’). In this mode, it is possible to vary the exposure time by holding the shutter button for the desired time to allow different amounts of light to fall on the film.

Flash System and Accessories

An external flash can be connected to the camera using the standardized hot shoe connector on the top. The flash sync speed is 1/125 second. Faster exposure times are not possible when using flash.

Thanks to the tripod thread on the bottom of the camera body, group shots or long-exposure shots can be easily captured, where a steady camera position is crucial.

Dimensions and Weight

According to the instruction manual, the dimensions of the Cosina CT-1 EX are 13.3 x 8.5 x 5 cm. Without lens and batteries, it weighs 410 grams, which underlines its robust yet handy design.

Power Supply

The camera requires two LR44 batteries, which provide power for the light meter and the LED display in the viewfinder. Since the shutter works purely mechanically, the camera will fire even without batteries or when the batteries are empty. In this case, however, the exposure must be measured or estimated externally.

Films for the Cosina CT-1 EX

According to the instructions, the Cosina CT-1 EX is designed for 35mm film. These are still widely used today and are developed by most photo labs. The negatives for the Cosina CT-1 EX have a standard size of 24 mm x 36 mm. A typical roll of film usually allows for 36 exposures. After each shot, the photographer must manually rewind the film using the film advance lever.

Possible films that can still be purchased today include the Kodak Portra 160* for natural color shots or the classic Ilford HP5* for high-contrast black-and-white photos. Both films are very popular and often receive positive reviews.

The standardized C-41 development process is used for processing color films. This process is offered by virtually all photo labs that develop 35mm film.

Current Value and Availability

This camera is no longer in production and is only available on the used market. These days, it is primarily its external condition and flawless functionality that determine its value.

Quick Operation Guide

1. Inserting Batteries: Insert two LR44 batteries into the battery compartment, observing the correct polarity.
2. Attaching Lens: Attach a K-mount lens and turn clockwise until it clicks into place.
3. Loading Film: Open the back cover, insert the film cassette, guide the film tongue toward the take-up spool, and ensure that the perforation engages. Close the back.
4. Advance the film: Operate the film advance lever and release the shutter until the frame counter shows ‘1’.
5. Set the film speed: Select the film’s ISO value using the dial.
6. Activate the meter & focus: Pull the film advance lever to the ready position. Look through the viewfinder and focus manually.
7. Set the exposure: Lightly press the shutter button. Adjust the exposure time and aperture so that the green LED in the viewfinder lights up.
8. Release the shutter: Select the frame and gently press the shutter button.
9. Advance the film: Push the film advance lever all the way down.
10. Rewind the film: After the last shot, press the rewind button on the bottom and wind the film back into the cartridge using the crank.
11. Remove the film: Open the back cover and remove the film cartridge.