The Zenit 1 is an SLR camera. It was manufactured from 1952 to 1956. It was built in the Krasnogorsk district of Moscow by KMZ. The production run was just over 39,000 units. It was the first SLR camera for 35mm format made by KMZ and ranked 9th in the world among 35mm SLR brands. The first 35mm SLR from the USSR was the GOMZ Sport.
The design of the Zenit was taken from the Zorki rangefinder camera.
The lenses of the SLR are interchangeable. Usable are the lenses for the M39 thread. Mostly the camera it comes with the Industar-22 (ИНДУСТАР) 50mm f/3.5 or the Industar-50 50mm f/3.5. The focus of the lens must be adjusted manually. There is no autofocus system.
The Zenit 1 does not have a built-in light meter. The camera has a Bulb setting. In this mode, the film is exposed as long as the shutter button is pressed.
Films for the Zenit 1
The SLR camera is designed for 35mm films. These are still easy to get today and are still being developed. Possible films for the Zenit 1 are the Fujifilm Superia 400 for color images and the Kodak TRI-X for black and white images.
The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. This is offered by almost every photo lab. The black and white film must be processed in a black and white developer. This process is, with the right chemistry, also possible at home. If you develop the film yourself, you have full control over the results and tend to achieve better results.
The camera’s negatives are 24 mm x 36 mm. So at least 36 images fit on a normal roll of 35mm film. The film is manually wound to the next image.
The Zenit 1 weighs 596 grams. It does not need batteries and works completely mechanically.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M39 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/25 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Weight | 596 Grams |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| End of production | 1956 |
| Production duration | 4 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 82,75 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 73 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 94,00 Euro (101.75 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 98,38 Euro (106.08 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 84,21 Euro (90.92 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Zenit 1
Is the Zenit 1 camera automatic or manual?
The Zenit 1 is a completely manual camera. It doesn't have autofocus or a built-in light meter. You need to manually focus the lens and determine the exposure settings yourself.
What kind of film does this Soviet-era camera use?
The Zenit 1 uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films are compatible, and these are readily available even today.
How many pictures can I take with one roll of film?
A standard 36-exposure 35mm roll of film will fit in this camera. You manually advance the film after each shot.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter to help with exposure?
No, the Zenit 1 lacks a built-in light meter. You'll need to use an external light meter or rely on your experience to determine correct exposure settings.
What type of lenses can I use with this SLR?
The Zenit 1 uses interchangeable lenses with an M39 screw mount. It commonly came with Industar lenses, but you can use other lenses with the same mount.