Polaroid SX-70 Sonar Autofocus

The Polaroid SX-70 Sonar Autofocus is an instant camera that was introduced in the late 1970s. With its range of functions, it is similar to the Alpha 1, but it brought a groundbreaking innovation: the SLR autofocus. In addition, it has a low-light warning in the viewfinder.

A fixed lens with a focal length of 116 mm is installed in the camera, and its widest aperture is f/8. Manual focusing is not necessary with this camera, as it is equipped with autofocus. This measures the distance to the subject using sound waves. However, the camera can also be focused manually and the closest focusing distance is 26 cm.

The Polaroid SX-70 Sonar Autofocus has a built-in light meter that can automatically set the aperture and exposure time. It is also possible to use an external flash via the flashbar socket. The power needed for the camera comes from the battery in the film pack. There is a thread for a tripod on the bottom of the camera.

Films for the Polaroid SX-70 Sonar Autofocus

The Sonar Autofocus is designed for the SX-70 format. These films used to be manufactured by Polaroid. Then Polaroid stopped the production. Today, films for the instant camera are again produced and also sold under the “Polaroid” brand.

The new films give better results than expired films from the old production, if you can still find them. There is a black and white film, Polaroid B&W Film for SX-70*, and a film for color images, Polaroid Color Film for SX-70*. One pack contains eight unexposed photos. In the past, there were still ten pictures in a cartridge. Therefore, you already have to change the film when you see the two in the frame counter window.

After the shutter release is pressed, the image is transported out of the camera by a motor. It passes through two rollers that distribute the developing chemicals over the image. After a few minutes, you hold the finished instant picture in your hand.