The Ricoh Auto Half S, a masterpiece of half-format photography, was introduced in the 1960s as part of the renowned Ricoh Auto Half series. Its evolution in 1965 brought a self-timer. However, it lacks the accessory shoe.
Equipped with a fixed 25mm lens that can be opened up to an impressive f/2.8 aperture, this 35mm camera offers fixed focussing. Shooting at a distance of 250 cm from the subject is ideal.
The integrated automatic exposure supports films in the ISO range from 12 to 200 and automatically adjusts the aperture and exposure time. At the same time, however, it also allows manual aperture selection depending on individual requirements.
The automatic exposure mode uses a shutter speed of 1/125 second, while a shutter speed of 1/30 second is used when using the flash.
With a weight of 350 grams and dimensions of 8.9 x 6.7 x 3.45 cm, the camera is compact and lightweight. It does not require an external power source to take pictures, thanks to the selenium light meter, whose reliability can deteriorate over the years.
Film selection for the Ricoh Auto Half S
Even today, if you can find one in working order, the Ricoh Auto Half S is an ideal companion when travelling. For colour shots, we recommend using the Kodak Ultramax 400*, while the Kodak T-Max 100* is a solid choice for black and white shots. According to test reports, both films offer reliable results for various applications.
The camera exposes an area of 24mm x 17mm, which means that a normal 35mm film can hold twice the number of images as stated on the packaging. Despite the smaller exposure format, the Ricoh Auto Half S delivers impressive results, even if it does not operate in “full format”.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Half-frame camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 17 mm |
| Focal length | 25 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 250 cm / 8.2 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 3 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/125 second, 1/30 second |
| Light meter | Selenium light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 200 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 8,9 x 6,7 x 3,45 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 3.50 x 2.64 x 1.36 inches |
| Weight | 350 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 70,28 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 9 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 83,64 Euro (89.84 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 98,93 Euro (106.08 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Ricoh Auto Half S
What is the focal length of the Ricoh Auto Half S's fixed lens?
The Ricoh Auto Half S features a fixed 25mm lens, offering a wide-angle perspective ideal for capturing landscapes or group shots.
Does this 35mm camera have an external flash shoe?
No, the Ricoh Auto Half S lacks an external flash shoe, limiting the use of additional flash equipment.
How does the automatic exposure system of the compact camera function?
It uses a selenium meter and automatically adjusts aperture and shutter speed (1/125s or 1/30s with flash) based on the ISO setting between 12 and 200; manual aperture control is also available.
What is the approximate shooting distance for optimal focus with this half-frame camera?
The optimal shooting distance is approximately 250 centimeters. Focusing is fixed, so accurate distance is crucial.
What are the dimensions and weight of the Ricoh Auto Half S?
The camera is compact and lightweight, measuring 8.9 x 6.7 x 3.45 cm and weighing 350 grams.