The Olympus PEN EE was introduced by Olympus in August 1961. It appealed to a wide target group and quickly became a popular snapshot camera. At the time, it was sold for around 10,000 yen. Today you can buy a used copy of the Japanese camera for as little as 115,88 Euro.
A striking feature of the PEN EE compared to its predecessors was that it was a completely new design. While the exposure values had to be set manually with the previous models, the PEN EE used selenium exposure metering for the first time. This was arranged around the lens and enabled purely automatic exposure, which made the camera particularly user-friendly.
The heart of the camera, the lens, was a D.Zuiko with a focal length of 28mm and an aperture of f/3.5. The lens consisted of four lens elements arranged in three groups. It offered an automatic aperture range of f/3.5 to 22, with the aperture being manually adjustable for flash photography. The Fix Focus System ensured that manual focusing was not necessary.
In terms of exposure, the PEN EE featured a Copal X automatic shutter with a fixed shutter speed of 1/60 second. The selenium light meter did not require a battery, simplifying the operation of the camera. For flash photography, the camera offered a socket for a corded flash.
The dimensions of the PEN EE are 108 x 66 x 42 mm and it weighs 350 g. The lack of a battery is also noticeable, since the selenium exposure measurement does not require an additional power source. The chrome-colored housing with gray accents and gray leather gives the camera a timeless design.
Film selection for the Olympus PEN EE
Wondering which film to use with the Olympus PEN EE? This camera model uses 35mm film. Even if it sounds dated, such films are still available nowadays and are quite accessible.
The recommended film types for this iconic Japanese camera are the Fujifilm Superia 200* for vivid color photography and the Ilford Delta 100* for impressive black and white Recordings. There is, of course, a wide variety of films that are compatible with the Olympus PEN EE.
The exposed aspect ratio of this camera is 24mm x 18mm and a standard roll of film can capture around 72 snapshots with this compact device.
One feature that the PEN EE lacks is automatic film advance. It is therefore up to the photographer to manually advance the film after each shot. A handy thumbwheel on the back helps with this, making this process easier.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Half-frame camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Thumbwheel |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 18 mm |
| Lens name | Olympus D. Zuiko |
| Focal length | 28 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 3 groups |
| Viewfinder | Bright frame viewfinder |
| Exposure times | 1/60 second |
| Light meter | Selenium light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 10 to 200 |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/40 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 10,8 x 6,6 x 4,2 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.25 x 2.60 x 1.65 inches |
| Weight | 350 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 115,88 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 99 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 98,94 Euro (106.08 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 100,75 Euro (108.24 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 106,54 Euro (114.73 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus PEN EE
What type of focusing system does the Olympus PEN EE employ?
The Olympus PEN EE utilizes a Fix Focus system, eliminating the need for manual focusing. This makes it very user-friendly, especially for snapshots.
Does this compact camera require batteries for operation?
No, the Olympus PEN EE doesn't need batteries. Its selenium light meter powers the automatic exposure, making it a convenient and simple camera to use.
What is the shutter speed of the Olympus PEN EE?
The PEN EE has a fixed shutter speed of 1/60th of a second, provided by a Copal X automatic shutter. This is sufficient for most everyday photography.
What film format does the Japanese camera use and how many shots can be taken on one roll?
The Olympus PEN EE uses standard 35mm film. A single roll of 35mm film allows for approximately 72 shots.
How is the film advanced after each exposure on this point-and-shoot camera?
Film advance is manual; a thumb wheel on the back of the camera facilitates this process. The user has to manually advance the film after each picture.