The Konica Mermaid is an underwater camera. The 35mm camera was produced by Konica and is a variant of the Japanese compact camera “Konica Big Mini”. The camera can be used up to a water depth of five meters.
The lens of the Konica Mermaid cannot be changed. 35 mm is the focal length of the lens. The largest aperture of the camera is f/3.5. The lens is focused via autofocus.
The Konica Mermaid has a built-in light meter. The exposure settings are set automatically by the camera. The underwater camera has a built-in flash.
Films for the Konica Mermaid
The Konica Mermaid is loaded with 35mm film. 35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories.
Possible films for this model are the Kodak Ultramax 400* and the Kodak T-Max 100*. The color film is designed to be developed in the C-41 process. C-41 film can be developed by most photo labs.
Black and white film goes into a suitable black and white developer. Some labs offer development of B&W film. More control and also cheaper, in the long run, is developing at home. The photochemistry can be conveniently ordered online. Depending on the film, other black and white chemistry is better suited to bring out the best results.
The Konica Mermaid negatives have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. At this size, 36 images fit on a 36 frame film. The film is transported automatically, so it is possible to take photos quickly one after the other under the water surface.
The power supply of the 35 mm camera is a CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). The camera is no longer in production. The used price of a copy depends on the condition.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Underwater camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | Yes |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Estimated value / Used price | 197,39 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 | 127,89 Euro (137.46 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 114,85 Euro (123.39 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 109,46 Euro (117.98 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Konica Mermaid
How deep can I take this underwater camera?
The Konica Mermaid is designed for underwater photography and can be used at depths of up to five meters. It's a great option for snorkeling or shallow dives.
What kind of film does the Konica Mermaid use?
This 35mm camera uses standard 35mm film, both color and black and white. Many brands and types are compatible, making it easy to find film.
Is the lens on the Konica Mermaid interchangeable?
No, the lens is fixed. It has a 35mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/3.5. It uses autofocus for easy shooting.
Does this underwater camera have a built-in flash?
Yes, the Konica Mermaid has a built-in flash to help illuminate your underwater subjects, especially in low-light conditions. It's fully automatic.
Can I still get film developed for this camera?
Yes, most photo labs can still process 35mm color (C-41) and black and white film. Alternatively, you can develop the film yourself at home.