The Cosina CX-1 is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of viewfinder cameras and is the predecessor of the Cosina CX-2. The Japanese snapshot camera was the model for the Russian Lomo LC-A.
The special feature of this camera is that the lens cover must be turned 90 degrees to take pictures. A very exciting construction.
The lens of the Cosina CX-1 cannot be exchanged. The focal length is fixed at 33 mm. The largest available aperture is f/3.5. The lens is focused manually. The model does not have an autofocus. The minimum distance to the subject is 90 cm.
Taking pictures is made easier by the built-in light meter. It can be used with films from ISO 25 to ISO 400. The Cosina CX-1 has automatic exposure control and sets aperture and shutter speed automatically. An external flash can be connected via hot shoe.
Films for the Cosina CX-1
Nothing works with the Cosina CX-1 without 35mm film. There is still a good selection of material for color and black and white images for this film format. Possible films for the camera from Japan are the Kodak Portra 400* for color images and the Ilford Delta 100* for B&W images.
The appropriate chemistry is needed to develop the B&W film if it is not sent to a profile lab. The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. This development process is available at almost every photo lab.
The film is further wound in the camera by hand. The camera has a tripod thread.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 10.3 x 6.6 x 4.2 cm. It weighs 225 grams. The Cosina CX-1 requires two SR44/LR44 (eBay / Amazon*). This batteries are easy to get.
The 35mm camera is only available used, as production has ended. Prices for a used copy depend on the condition.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 33 mm |
| Biggest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 90 cm / 2.952 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 3 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 2 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 400 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/45 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x SR44 batteries |
| Size | 10,3 x 6,6 x 4,25 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.06 x 2.60 x 1.67 inches |
| Weight | 215 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 70,00 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of 1.1.2024 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 68,45 Euro (73.60 US-Dollar) |