The Haking Pix Panorama is an uncomplicated snapshot camera for the 35mm format. Its case is made of plastic and its origin is China. It is known that similar models were sold under different names and brands.
The manufacturer Haking, based in Hong Kong, is an obvious producer. However, another company with production facilities in the People’s Republic of China could have taken over the production. One possibility for this would be the New Taiwan Photographic Corp. (Ouyama), which has a factory in Shenzhen and also produces cameras.
There is also a variant, the Haking Flash 35 P, which is also equipped with a flash.
Camera features
The range of functions of the 35mm camera is manageable, since there are not many special features to report. The camera offers a fixed focal length, probably at 28mm, and a fixed aperture and shutter speed.
It doesn’t have a light meter or autofocus. The focus is statically fixed in the range from 1 meter to infinity. In order to achieve reasonably sharp shots, a minimum distance of 1 meter to the subject should be maintained.
The camera does not require batteries as all functions are mechanical in nature. It is not equipped with a flash, tripod socket or self-timer, but offers an attachment option for a wrist strap.
The panorama function
A key feature in the marketing of the camera is the panorama function, although this is not a true panorama camera.
A traditional 35mm camera exposes an area of 24mm x 36mm, while the Haking Pix Panorama exposes an area of 13mm x 36mm. This peculiarity creates the impression of a panoramic image, especially when printed in this special ratio.
This image format is realized by a mask in the camera that covers part of the image. Technically, it would be possible to remove this plastic mask to go back to the original 24mm x 36mm format. However, the basic viewfinder still displays the panoramic format.
Such panorama functions can be found in many compact cameras of this era, whereby it was often possible to switch between standard and panorama shots.
To create such panoramic images, there is also the option of subsequently cropping the image using software.
Films for the Haking Pix Panorama
Of course, the camera can still be used today. The Haking Pix Panorama uses 35mm film, which is still produced today and can be easily developed by most development service providers.
Potential films for the Haking Pix Panorama are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color shots and the Ilford HP5* for black and white images. Both films mentioned deliver reliable results and take 36 exposures.
Of course, there are also many other compatible films to choose from that are suitable for this camera. Other film materials are available from Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei, Foma and Lomography, among others.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Thumbwheel |
| Picture format | 13 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 28 mm |
| Widest aperture | - |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Panorama function | Yes |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | China |
| Estimated value / Used price | 18,28 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 6 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of September 2, 2023 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 18,00 Euro (19.48 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Haking Pix Panorama
What type of film does the Haking Pix Panorama camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film, readily available from various manufacturers like Kodak, Ilford, Fujifilm, and others. These films are easily developed by most photo labs.
Does this snapshot camera have an automatic focus or exposure meter?
No, the Haking Pix Panorama lacks both autofocus and an exposure meter. Focus is fixed between 1 meter and infinity.
Is the 'panorama' function a true panoramic shot?
No, it's a cropped 13mm x 36mm image achieved via a mask within the camera. It simulates a panorama effect, primarily through post-processing or print aspect ratio.
What is the camera body made of, and where was it manufactured?
The camera body is made of plastic and its origin is China. It’s possible that other companies also manufactured similar models.
What is the lens focal length of the Haking Pix Panorama, and does it require batteries?
The focal length is likely around 28mm. It does not require batteries, as all functions are mechanical.