Praktica PL Nova I

Praktica PL Nova I is a 35 mm camera. It is a single-lens reflex camera. The VEB Pentacon Dresden produced them from 1967 to 1972. The 35mm camera was also sold under the names “Hanimex Praktica Nova I” and “Cavalier SLR-II” on the American market.

The lenses of the Praktica PL Nova I can be easily interchanged. Lenses with a M42-Gewinde can be used. There is a wide range of interchangeable lenses for the M42 lens mount. The M42 thread was developed by Carl Zeiss in Jena, Germany. Zeiss, KMZ, Voigtländer, Pentacon and Pentax were among others manufacturers of M42 interchangeable lenses. The Praktica PL Nova I does not have an autofocus system. The lens is focused manually.

The Praktica PL Nova I has no built-in light meter. An external exposure meter is therefore an advantage. The desired shutter speed can be determined manually. The aperture is also individually selectable. The 35mm camera has a bulb mode. The shutter stays open as long as desired. An external flash unit can be connected to the PC flash socket.

Films for the Praktica PL Nova I

35mm films are still produced today. They can be developed in most photo laboratories. A possible film for color photography is the Agfaphoto Vista 400*. One option for b/w images is the AgfaPhoto APX 400*.

The color film is a negative film and is processed in the C-41 development process. C-41 films are developed by almost all photo laboratories.

Them Praktica PL Nova I exposes an area of 24 mm x 36 mm. As a rule, 36 shots are possible per film (135-36) at this negative size. The film in the camera must be winded manually by the photographer.

The Praktica PL Nova I can be connected to a cable release or tripod by means of the corresponding threads. The 35mm camera does not need electricity to take pictures.

The Praktica PL Nova I you can only buy used. The price you pay for a used copy of the Praktica PL Nova I depends on the condition and functionality.