The Cosina CT-1 is a 35mm camera. It is part of the group of single lens reflex cameras. Some time later the Cosina CT-1A followed, it is almost identical to the CT-1, but replaces the analog measuring needle of the model with an LED exposure indicator (+ O -) on the side of the viewfinder. The CT1 Super is also very identical, but offers the possibility of shooting up to 1/2000 s.
The 35mm camera was also available under the name “Petri MF-101”.
The lenses of the Cosina CT-1 can be changed. This is possible trough the Pentax K bayonet. The lens is focused manually. The Cosina CT-1 does not have an autofocus system.
The Cosina CT-1 has a built-in light meter. The exposure meter was designed for films with ISO value between 25 and 1600. Exposure is measured through the lens of the SLR camera. The aperture and shutter speed can be selected by the photographer as desired.
The Cosina CT-1 has a bulb mode, for example for long exposures. The shutter is open for a variable time. An external flash can be connected to the Hot Shoe. There is also a PC flash socket.
Films for the Cosina CT-1
The Cosina CT-1 is designed for the 35mm format. 35mm films are still produced by different producers. Possible films for the model are the Fujifilm Superia 200* for color pictures and the Ilford HP5* for black and white photos.
The color negative film is developed in the C-41 development process. C-41 films are developed by almost all photo laboratories.
The 35mm camera has a thread for a tripod. In addition, there is a connector for a cable release and a self-timer. The camera weighs 420 grams and the dimensions are 13,3 x 8,5 x 4,8 cm. The power source of the 35mm camera are two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Today you can buy the Cosina CT-1 only in used condition. The value of a used copy of the model depends on the condition of the camera.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Pentax K lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Size | 13,3 x 8,5 x 4,8 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.24 x 3.35 x 1.89 inches |
| Weight | 420 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 110,14 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 26 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 71,56 Euro (76.85 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 89,73 Euro (96.33 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 97,21 Euro (104.99 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Cosina CT-1
What kind of film does the Cosina CT-1 use? Is it hard to find?
The Cosina CT-1 uses 35mm film, which is still widely available from various manufacturers. You can easily find both color and black and white 35mm film options online and in some camera stores, like Fujifilm Superia 200 or Ilford HP5.
Can I change the lenses on this camera? What kind would fit?
Yes, you can change the lenses on this camera! The Cosina CT-1 uses the Pentax K mount, so any lens with that mount will fit. Remember that focusing is manual with this camera, so you'll have to adjust the focus ring on the lens yourself.
Does it tell me if the picture is exposed right, or do I need to guess?
This camera has a built-in light meter to help you get the exposure right. It works with films from ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The CT-1 has an analog needle, the CT-1A shows the exposure with LEDs (+ O -) in the viewfinder to help you set the aperture and shutter speed correctly.
Can I use a flash with this camera?
Yes, you can definitely use a flash with this camera. The Cosina CT-1 has a hot shoe on top where you can attach an external flash unit. There's also a PC sync socket if your flash requires that type of connection, offering flexibility in your lighting setup.
Is this 35mm camera automatic, or do I have to set everything myself?
The Cosina CT-1 is mostly manual. You have to set the aperture and shutter speed yourself, but it does have an aperture-priority mode. This means you can set the aperture, and the camera will select the appropriate shutter speed automatically. You can't change the focus automatically.