Olympus OM-1 MD

The Olympus OM-1 MD is a 35mm camera. It is a revised version of the OM-1 from 1974. The biggest innovation of the camera was the change of the base plate, which allowed the use of a motor for film transport.

In total, 19 changes were made to the successful OM-1. The OM-1 MD can be recognized by a small “MD” badge on the front of the camera.

The lenses of the Olympus OM-1 MD can be exchanged. For this purpose, an Olympus OM bayonet was installed. Frequently, one encounters the 35mm photo camera with the Zuiko Auto-S 1:1.4/50 mm. The lens is focused by hand. The Olympus OM-1 MD does not have an autofocus function.

The 35 mm camera has a light meter. This can be used with films from a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure when metering through the lens (TTL). The shutter speed and aperture can be selected by the photographer.

The photo camera comes with a Bulb mode. An external flash unit can be used via the hot shoe or PC flash port. The shortest exposure time with the OM-1 MD’s hot shoe when using a flash is 1/60 second.

The Olympus OM-1 MD has a thread for a tripod. It can be released via self-timer or cable release. The camera weighs 510 grams. The dimensions of the housing are 13.6 x 8.3 x 5 cm. A PX 625 battery provides the power supply.

Films for the Olympus OM-1 MD

What kind of films are needed for the Olympus OM-1 MD? The camera is designed for 35mm film. 35mm films are still manufactured today and are quite easy to get. Possible films for the Olympus OM-1 MD are the Fujifilm Superia 200* for color images and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for black and white images.

The color film is processed using the C-41 process. This development process is performed by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film. Thus, something the large drugstore chains in Germany offer the development of color films.

The exposure area of the Olympus OM-1 MD has a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. So at least 36 photos fit on a 36 frame 35mm film. To the next picture you can either wind manually or you work with a winder. These motors are available as accessories and allow a maximum frame rate of up to 5 frames per second.