Canon F-1
The name Canon F-1 describes two very different cameras: a fully manual model, and a later electronically controlled model. The latter is often termed the New F-1 or F-1N. (The earlier model exists in two versions; the later is often termed the F-1n.)
The F-1 is commonly regarded as Canon's first successful attempt to build a SLR system camera for professional photographers. The finder is interchangeable but the camera is most often seen with a pentaprism, which lacks an accessory shoe. (A separate accessory shoe was available, sliding over the closed film wind lever.)
The New F-1 is again most commonly seen with a pentaprism finder, but this has an accessory shoe. Thus the simple way to tell the two models apart is by whether or not there is an accessory shoe atop the finder.
Finders designed for the F-1 do not fit the New F-1, or vice-versa.
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| The New F-1, with film winder attached. |
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| Canon F-1 with Film Chamber 250 and Motor Drive Unit |
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| Finder parts and camera back are easily removable; click on image to see video |
Links
In English:
- F-1 opinion at Modern Classics
- Less common olive drab Canon F-1
- Manual Camera User's opinion
- Canon F1 Camera Manual: Photo-Manuals.com by Ben Squire
In French:
- Canon F-1 website by G. Pigne
- Lionel's Canon F-1 overview at 35mm-compact.com
- Canon F1 at Sylvain Halgand's www.collection-appareils.fr
- Canon F1n at Sylvain Halgand's www.collection-appareils.fr
