Polaroid SX-70 Sonar OneStep

The Polaroid SX-70 Sonar OneStep is an instant camera. It was introduced in the late 70s. It is similar in functionality to the Alpha 1. The biggest innovation is the autofocus of the reflex camera. There is also a warning when there is little light in the viewfinder.

A fixed lens is built into the camera. The focal length cannot be changed and is 116 mm. The maximum aperture is f/8, manual focusing is not necessary with the 35 mm camera. The modal comes with an autofocus system. The distance to the subject is measured by sound waves. But it can also be focused manually. The closest focusing distance is 26.4 cm.

The Polaroid SX-70 Sonar OneStep has a built-in light meter. The Polaroid SX-70 Sonar OneStep can automatically set the aperture and exposure time. An external flash can be used via the flash bar socket.

The required power for the camera comes from battery in the film pack. On the bottom of the camera is a thread for a tripod.

Films for the Polaroid SX-70 Sonar OneStep

The Sonar OneStep is designed for the SX-70 format. These films were formerly produced by Polaroid. Today they are available again under the brand name “Polaroid Originals”. These films are fresh and give better results than the old expired films, if you can still find films from the old production.

For the SX-70 format, there is a black and white film, Polaroid B&W Film for SX-70*, and a film for colour images, Polaroid Color Film for SX-70*. There are eight unexposed photos in one package.

After pressing the shutter button, the image is transported out of the camera by a motor. There it passes through two rollers that distribute the developing chemicals over the image. After a few minutes you have the finished instant image in your hand.

Other models

This model was also sold under the name “Polaroid SX-70 SE Land Camera Sonar OneStep”.