Between 1958 and 1962, the Pentacon FBM SLR camera was produced by VEB Zeiss Ikon Dresden. A functionally identical model is the Contax FBM. The brand name Contax was used in the country of production, GDR. The name Pentacon was used for export.
Camera functions
Lenses
One of the outstanding features of the Pentacon FBM is its lens compatibility. With an M42 lens mount, the camera offers the flexibility to use different lenses to expand photographers’ creative possibilities.
The standard lens often paired with this camera is the “Carl Zeiss Tessar” with an aperture of f/2.8 and a focal length of 50mm. The aperture can be varied from 2.8 to 16, giving photographers a wide range of creative options to experiment with depth of field and master different lighting conditions.
Shutter and exposure times
The Pentacon FBM is equipped with a horizontal cloth shutter, a technology valued for its reliability and precision. The camera offers a diverse selection of exposure times ranging from Bulb, 1 to 1/1000th of a second, allowing photographers to optimally capture a variety of subjects and scenes.
Focusing and flash
Focusing is done manually, allowing users to make precise and conscious decisions about image composition. In terms of flash functionality, the camera has a sync socket (X-contact) on the top, although there is no hot shoe.
Light meter and viewfinder
The camera has an uncoupled selenium exposure meter, which is covered by a flap and supports the photographer in optimally setting the exposure. The prism viewfinder, equipped with a field lens and a cross-sectional rangefinder, offers a clear and precise view of the subject to be photographed.
Film transport and other features
The film is transported via a knurled screw, and the shutter release is located diagonally at the front, equipped with a cable release thread. The camera also has useful features such as a self-timer, a film type index under the rewind button and a film counter located under the film advance and tensioning thumbscrew.
Films for the Pentacon FBM
The Pentacon FBM is designed for use with the 35mm format. Fortunately, a wide range of film stock for color and monochrome photography is still available in this format.
For vivid color images, the Kodak Ultramax 400* is recommended, while the Ilford FP4 Plus* is an excellent option for black and white recordings. Both films have proven to be reliable products that consistently produce high quality results.
In terms of development, the color film is designed for the C-41 process, which is offered by most specialized photo laboratories. In addition, many drugstores offer this service for color films. Monochrome films, on the other hand, offer various development options; They can be professionally edited in a photo lab or, with the right equipment, developed at home.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Quick release lever |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Selenium light meter |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Manufacturer | Zeiss Ikon |
| Company name of the manufacturer | VEB Zeiss Ikon Dresden |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| End of production | 1962 |
| Production duration | 4 years |
FAQ about the Pentacon FBM
What type of lens mount does the Pentacon FBM utilize, and what are the advantages of this?
The Pentacon FBM uses an M42 screw mount. This offers great flexibility, allowing photographers to use a wide variety of lenses from different manufacturers, expanding creative possibilities.
How does the Contax FBM, which is functionally identical to the Pentacon FBM, differ in terms of branding and market?
The Contax FBM was the name used in East Germany, while Pentacon was the brand used for export markets. Functionally, both cameras are identical.
Describe the focusing mechanism and flash capabilities of this classic SLR.
The camera features manual focusing, allowing for precise control over composition. It has a flash sync socket (X-contact) but lacks a built-in flash shoe.
What kind of light meter does the camera possess, and what is its function?
It incorporates an uncoupled selenium light meter, which helps the photographer determine the proper exposure settings. Note that it is not directly coupled to the camera's shutter speed.
What film format does the Pentacon FBM use, and what are some recommended films for it?
The Pentacon FBM uses 35mm film. Kodak Ultramax 400 for color and Ilford FP4 Plus for black and white are both excellent choices.