The Olympus OM-1 is an SLR camera. It was sold by Olympus from May 1973. This model is the successor of the Olympus M-1, which was no longer sold because of the name dispute with Leitz. It was followed in 1974 by the Olympus OM-1 MD, a revised form of the camera that differs mainly in the possibility of using a film motor.
The lenses of the Olympus OM-1 are interchangeable. For this purpose, an Olympus OM bayonet was built into the camera. The Zuiko Auto-S 1:1.4/50 mm is often found on the 35mm photo camera. There is no autofocus on the 35mm camera. You have to focus on the subject by hand.
The camera has a built-in light meter. The light meter was designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The light meter is built to measure exposure through the camera’s lens. Depending on the photographer’s preference, the aperture and exposure time can be selected.
The camera has a Bulb mode. A flash can be used via the hot shoe or PC flash port. The shortest flash sync speed is 1/60 second.
The Olympus OM-1 has a built-in self-timer. It also comes with a connection for a cable release and tripod. The camera weighs 510 grams and measures 13.6 x 8.3 x 5 cm. Power is supplied by a PX 625 battery.
Films for the Olympus OM-1
The Olympus OM-1 takes its pictures on 35mm film. The 35mm format is very common, so even today there are some manufacturers and many developing labs. Possible films for the Olympus OM-1 are the Agfaphoto Vista 200* and the Kodak TRI-X 400*. The development process for color film is the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab.
The 35mm camera is only available second hand, as production has ended. Prices for the camera vary depending on condition, but are well below the functionally identical Olympus M-1.
Olympus OM-1 VSOE
In Europe, the Olympus OM-1 VSOE was sold in part. VSOE stands for “Full Service Olympus Europe.” The VSOE badge should make it clear that it was not a gray import of the camera. The feature set is identical to the other OM-1 SLRs.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Olympus OM lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x PX625 battery |
| Size | 13,6 x 8,3 x 5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.35 x 3.27 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 510 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 169,72 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 97 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 174,50 Euro (188.34 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 184,40 Euro (199.16 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 180,67 Euro (194.83 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus OM-1
Is the Olympus OM-1 a digital or film camera?
The Olympus OM-1 is a 35mm film camera. It uses interchangeable lenses and requires manual focus. It's a classic SLR camera, not a digital one.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
The Olympus OM-1 doesn't have autofocus; you have to manually adjust the focus ring on the lens until the subject is sharp. This requires some practice and experience.
Can I use a flash with the Olympus OM-1?
Yes, you can use a flash with the Olympus OM-1. It has both a hot shoe and a PC sync connection for attaching external flash units. Remember the sync speed is 1/60th of a second.
What kind of batteries does this camera need?
The Olympus OM-1 uses a PX 625 battery for power. These are still available from some suppliers, although finding replacements might take some effort.
What film formats are compatible with this photographic device?
This vintage device uses standard 35mm film, making it easy to find film and develop your pictures. Many labs still process 35mm film, so finding somewhere to develop your photos shouldn't be difficult.