The Porst 135 KE is a viewfinder camera for 35mm format. It was distributed by the Nuremberg photo dealer Photo Porst. The new price of the model in the 80s was just under 200 D-Mark. The camera was produced in Japan. A similar model was called “Eumig UC 35” and “Carena EF 250”.
The lens of the camera cannot be changed. The lens tube is retractable and protected by two doors. The focal length is 38 mm and the maximum aperture is f/5.6. The manufacturer’s designation of the lens is “Porst-Color 1:5,6/38mm”. The distance setting of the lens is fixed.
The Porst 135 KE has a built-in light meter. However, the camera offers only two settings for the shutter speeds. The camera adjusts this according to the film speed. At ISO 100 it is 1/125 sec, at ISO 400 1/250 sec.
The built-in flash provides sufficient light. The Porst 135 KE has a thread for a tripod and cable release.
The camera has a weight of 185 grams. The dimensions are 11 x 7 x 3,5 cm. The power source of the 35mm camera are two AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Porst 135 KE
The Porst 135 KE needs photo film for taking pictures. Or more precisely 35mm film. 35mm films are still offered by various manufacturers. A good choice for color photography is the Kodak Ultramax 400*. If you want to stay monochrome, the Ilford Delta 100* is not bad. The negatives of Porst 135 KE have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. It translates to 36 pictures per roll of film.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | ? |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 38 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.6 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | 1/250 second, 1/125 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AAA batteries |
| Size | 11 x 7 x 3,5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.33 x 2.76 x 1.38 inches |
| Weight | 185 Grams |
| Company name of the brand | Photo Porst |
| Country of production | Japan |
FAQ about the Porst 135 KE
What kind of film does this 35mm camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. You can find these at most photography stores or online. Each roll typically provides around 36 exposures.
How do I set the shutter speed on the Porst 135 KE?
The shutter speed is automatically set by the built-in light meter based on the film speed (ISO). It adjusts to either 1/125s or 1/250s depending on your film.
Does this camera have a built-in flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash. With ISO 100 film, it's effective up to about 2.5 meters.
Can I change the lens on the Porst 135 KE?
No, the lens is fixed; it's a 38mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6. The lens is also retractable for protection.
What type of batteries does the built-in light meter need?
The light meter runs on two AAA batteries. These are easily replaceable and available everywhere.