The Cosina CT-1A is a single lens reflex camera. The 35mm camera was built by Cosina. It is the successor of the Cosina CT-1, which has changed the exposure display in the viewfinder from a needle to LEDs. The CT-1A was also available under the names “Petri GX-1” and “Petri MF-101A”.
The lenses of the Cosina CT-1A can be changed. For this purpose, a Pentax K bayonet was installed in the camera. The focus of the lens must be adjusted manually. There is no autofocus system.
The 35 mm camera has a built-in light meter. The exposure meter is designed for 35mm films from ISO 25 to ISO 1600 and is designed to measure exposure through the camera lens.
The aperture and shutter speed can be freely selected if desired. The 35 mm camera comes with a bulb setting option. An external flash can be connected to the Hot Shoe. There is also a PC flash socket.
Films for the Cosina CT-1A
The Cosina CT-1A takes pictures on 35mm film. These are still easy to get today and development services are still around. One option for b/w images is the Kodak T-Max 400*. A possible film for color pictures is the Kodak Gold 200*.
If you like, you can use the built-in self-timer or a separate cable release to trigger the Cosina CT-1A. The possibility of using a tripod provides the necessary stability. The camera weighs 420 g and the dimensions are 13,3 x 8,5 x 4,8 cm. The camera needs two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
The camera can be bought today only used. The price for a used copy of the model vary depending on the condition.
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 |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| 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 | 84,72 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 6 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 78,77 Euro (84.43 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 77,48 Euro (83.34 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 77,10 Euro (83.34 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Cosina CT-1A
Is this camera automatic or do I need to adjust the settings myself?
The Cosina CT-1A is a manual camera. You'll need to set the aperture and shutter speed yourself. It doesn't have autofocus, so focusing is also manual.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The camera uses Pentax K mount lenses. This means you can find a variety of interchangeable lenses, but you'll need to choose ones that fit the Pentax K bayonet.
How do I take pictures at night or in low light?
The camera has a built-in light meter to help you determine correct exposure, which is helpful in various light conditions. It works with films from ISO 25 to ISO 1600.
What type of film does the SLR use?
This 35mm film camera uses standard 35mm film rolls, which are still readily available from various manufacturers like Kodak, Ilford, and Fuji.
Can I use a flash with the device?
Yes, the Cosina CT-1A has a hot shoe for connecting an external flash and also includes a PC flash sync socket for additional flash options.