The Porst reflex CX3 is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras and was produced by Pentacon in the GDR. The CX3 corresponds to Praktica L. Photo Porst distributed the camera in West Germany. The original price at that time was 200 marks.
The lenses of the Porst reflex CX3 are interchangeable. This is made possible by the M42 thread. There are many interchangeable lenses for the M42 connection. There is no autofocus with the 35 mm camera. You have to focus on the subject by hand.
The Porst reflex CX3 has no built-in light meter. The aperture and shutter speed can be individually configured. The Porst reflex CX3 has a bulb setting. The shutter can remain open for a variable time and expose the film.
Films for the Porst reflex CX3
What films do you need for the Porst reflex CX3? It need 35mm film. 35mm films are still produced today and are quite easy to get. A nice film for color prints is the Fujifilm Superia 200* and for black-and-white shots of the Ilford Delta 100*.
The camera has a thread for a tripod on the bottom. There is also a connection for a cable release.
The camera is no longer in production. The value of a used Porst reflex CX3 depends primarily on if it works correctly and in what condition the copy is.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| 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 |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Company name of the brand | Photo Porst |
| Manufacturer | VEB Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| Estimated value / Used price | 48,50 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 4 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 29,89 Euro (31.39 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 36,49 Euro (38.97 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 55,23 Euro (59.53 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Porst reflex CX3
Is the Porst reflex CX3 a digital or film camera?
The Porst reflex CX3 is a film camera, specifically a 35mm film camera. It uses interchangeable lenses and requires manual focus. It's not a digital camera.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
The Porst reflex CX3 doesn't have autofocus; you have to manually focus the lens. This means you adjust the focus ring on the lens until the image is sharp.
Does this camera have a built-in light meter?
No, the Porst reflex CX3 does not have a built-in light meter. You'll need to use an external light meter or rely on your own experience to determine correct exposure settings.
What kind of lenses can I use with my new camera?
The camera uses M42 lenses. This is a very common mount, so there's a wide variety of lenses available both new and used. Many options exist for this classic system.
Where can I get film for this old camera?
The Porst reflex CX3 uses standard 35mm film. 35mm film is still widely available from online retailers, photo supply stores, and even some drugstores.