The Haking MW 35S built by Haking is a compact viewfinder camera that can be used with 35mm film. It was built in Hong Kong and was primarily aimed at beginners and occasional users. The design is inspired by similar Japanese models from that time. The Haking model was also sold under other brand names with the same range of functions.
The possibility of changing the lens is not available with this model. The name of the lens is “Hakinon Lens”. The focal length is 38mm and the maximum aperture of the lens is f/3.8.
A manual approach is required to adjust the focus on the camera as there is no autofocus function. The minimum distance to the subject must be 100 cm. There is zone autofocus with four levels, 1 meter, 1.5 meters, 3 meters and infinity.
A measuring cell is integrated in the Haking MW 35S for exposure metering. The camera supports ISO values in the range of 50 to 400. The automatic exposure control in the 35mm camera takes over the setting of exposure time and aperture automatically, which means that manual selection is not possible. The shutter speed remains the same. Only the aperture changes.
There is a built-in flash for photography in low light, which ensures clear images.
The Haking MW 35S has a connection for a cable release. There is also a thread on the underside of the camera for a tripod. A camera strap can also be attached to this model.
The camera requires two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) to provide power for all camera functions. This type of battery is very easy to find and you can also use rechargeable ones. A set of batteries lasts a long time.
Films for the Haking MW 35S
Nothing works with the Haking MW 35S without photo films. More precisely, according to the instructions, the camera needs 35mm films. 35mm film is still available and can be easily processed at most professional photo labs without encountering any difficulties.
Kodak Portra 400* and Ilford Delta 400* are nice 35mm films for color and black-and-white images. According to test reports, the two films deliver solid results and are suitable for a large number of application areas. Of course there are other manufacturers. Lomography, Rollei, Fujifilm and Adox offer suitable material.
The exposure area of the photo camera is 24 mm x 36 mm. Given the size of the exposure area, most 36 photos fit on a normal film (135-36). The film transport in this camera is motorized and automatically advances the film after each release. The return transport is also automatic.
On the top there is an indication whether the film is being transported correctly. There is also a counter for the number of photos taken.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Hakinon Lens |
| Focal length | 38 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Type of focus | Zone focus |
| Focus zones | 1 m, 1,5 m, 3 m, Infinite |
| Filter thread | 46 mm |
| Exposure times | 1/125 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 50 to 400 |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Country of production | Hong Kong |
FAQ about the Haking MW 35S
What type of film does the Haking MW 35S use?
The Haking MW 35S uses standard 35mm film. These are readily available and easily developed at most photo labs.
Does this compact camera have an interchangeable lens?
No, the Haking MW 35S has a fixed Hakinon 38mm f/3.8 lens. Lens swapping isn't possible.
How is focusing achieved on the Haking MW 35S?
Focusing is manual; there's no autofocus. It offers a zone autofocus system with four settings (1m, 1.5m, 3m, infinity). Minimum focusing distance is 100cm.
What kind of metering system does the camera employ?
The 35mm camera uses a built-in metering cell for automatic exposure control. It automatically adjusts aperture (while keeping shutter speed constant) for ISO 50-400.
What power source does the camera require?
The Haking MW 35S is powered by two AA batteries. These are easily replaceable, and rechargeable batteries can be used.