The Zenit 19 is an SLR camera. It was produced over 100,000 times from 1979 to 1987. It is the predecessor of the Zenit 18.
The Zenit 19 comes with the M42 thread. In most cases it was sold with the Zenitar-M 1.7/50. There are many interchangeable lenses for the M42 mount. The lens thread was developed by Carl Zeiss in Jena in 1938. Zeiss, KMZ, Voigtländer, Pentacon and Pentax were among the manufacturers of M42 interchangeable lenses. You have to focus the lens by hand. The 35mm camera does not have an autofocus function.
The Zenit 19 has a built-in light meter. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure by measuring through the lens (TTL). Depending on the photographer’s preference, the aperture and exposure time can be selected. A Bulb setting is also available. Here, the shutter is open for a variable time. Hot-shoe flashes can be used with the Zenit 19. There is also a PC flash socket.
Films for the Zenit 19
The Zenit 19 requires 35mm film. 35mm films are still made today and are fairly easy to get. Possible films for the SlR camera are the Fujifilm Superia 400* for color photos and the Kodak TRI-X 400* for B&W images.
The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. C-41 film can be developed by most photo labs. The black and white film must be developed in a suitable chemistry. Kodak TRI-X can also be dropped off at a large lab, as it is fairly straightforward to develop.
The Zenit 19 negatives have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. At this size, 36 images usually fit on a roll of 35 mm film. Some rolls of film also only have room for 24 images. However, this is noted on the cartridge and the packaging.
The Zenit 19 has a thread for a tripod and a connection for a cable release. In addition, there is a self-timer. The required power for the camera comes from two PX625 (eBay / Amazon*).
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 | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x PX625 batteries |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| End of production | 1987 |
| Production duration | 8 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 121,00 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 156,91 Euro (168.85 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 147,67 Euro (159.11 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 133,27 Euro (143.96 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Zenit 19
Is the Zenit 19 a manual focus camera?
Yes, the Zenit 19 is a manual focus camera. It doesn't have autofocus. You adjust the focus on the lens itself.
What kind of film does this camera use?
The Zenit 19 uses standard 35mm film. These are readily available, both color and black and white.
How many pictures can I take on one roll of film?
Most 35mm rolls fit 36 exposures, but some may only hold 24. Check the film packaging to be sure.
Can I use a flash with the camera?
Yes, the Zenit 19 has a hot shoe for flash attachments and also a PC sync socket for older flash units.
What type of lens mount does the device have?
The Zenit 19 uses the M42 screw mount, a very common and widely supported lens mount with lots of affordable lenses available.