Chrome Canon AE-1 Camera and 50mm Lens

Chrome Canon AE-1 Program SLR Camera+50mm Lens
PREOWNED-GOOD CONDITION

Canon AE-1, a legendary 35 mm single-lens reflex (SLR) film camera that left an indelible mark on photography history.

Canon AE-1: A Classic Icon

1. Design and Build:

   • The Canon AE-1, introduced in 1976, boasts a timeless design. Its body combines metal and plastic, resulting in a sturdy yet lightweight construction.
   • Available in both silver and black, the AE-1 exudes elegance. The chrome trim adds a touch of sophistication.

2. Lens Mount and Compatibility:

   • The AE-1 features the Canon FD breech-lock lens mount. This mount accepts any Canon FD or New FD (FDn) lens.
   • Notably, the AE-1 is not compatible with Canon's later EF lens mount. However, independent manufacturers have created adapters for those who wish to use EF lenses.
   • Additionally, stop-down metering allows compatibility with Canon's earlier FL-mount lenses.

3. Original FD Lenses:

   • The original FD lenses, introduced in 1971, attach differently from bayonet mounts. Instead of rotating during mounting, they use a locking ring at the base.
   • Critics argued that this method was slower, but it had an advantage: the lens/body mating surfaces didn't rotate, preventing wear that could affect the critical distance from lens to film plane.

4. New FD Lenses:

   • In 1979, Canon introduced the New FD series. These lenses rotate the entire outer lens barrel to lock.
   • The inner lens barrel remains stationary, ensuring that signal levers and pins don't rotate either.

5. Lens Variety:

   • During the late 1970s, photographers had over 50 Canon FD lenses at their disposal.
   • The range covered everything from a fisheye FD 15 mm f/2.8 SSC to an impressive FD 800 mm f/5.6 SSC. Special-purpose lenses included a 7.5 mm circular fisheye and a 35 mm tilt-and-shift lens.

6. Shutter and Exposure:

   • The AE-1 features an electronically controlled, electromagnet horizontal cloth focal plane shutter.
   • Shutter speeds range from 2 seconds to 1/1000 second, with a Bulb mode for long exposures.
   • Flash synchronization occurs at 1/60 second.

7. ISO Range and Film Speed:

   • The AE-1 accommodates film speeds from ISO 25 to 3200.
   • Whether you're shooting in bright sunlight or dimly lit environments, the AE-1 adapts.

8. Viewfinder and Metering:

   • The optical viewfinder provides a clear, bright image with 0.83x magnification.
   • Metering is center-weighted, allowing precise exposure calculations.

9. Exposure Modes:

   • Shutter priority autoexposure: Set your desired shutter speed, and the AE-1 adjusts the aperture accordingly.
   • Fully manual exposure: Take complete control over both shutter speed and aperture.
   • Program AE: A semi-automatic mode where the camera selects both shutter speed and aperture based on available light.

10. Accessories:

    • The Canon AE-1 supports various accessories:
      • Canon Winder A: Motorized single-frame film advance (up to 2 frames per second).
      • Canon Databack A: Sequential numbering or date stamping on the film.
      • Canon Speedlite 155A and 177A: Electronic flashes for low-light situations.

11. Dimensions and Weight:

    • The AE-1 measures 146 mm (width) x 89 mm (height) x 49 mm (depth).
    • It weighs approximately 590 g.

In summary, the Canon AE-1 is more than a camera; it's a cultural touchstone. Its microprocessor-equipped brilliance, combined with its widespread popularity, solidified its place in photographic history. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a curious enthusiast, the AE-1 invites you to explore the magic of film photography!