Olympus 35 SP

Olympus 35 SP image by Denny Narciso (Image rights)

Olympus produced the 35 SP line of rangefinder cameras from 1969 through 1976. Though somewhat overshadowed early on by the explosive popularity of SLRs, the Olympus SP rangefinder models were sophisticated and high-quality cameras. Unique among 35mm rangefinders, the SP featured a dual metering system, with both spot and center-weighted readings. Its compactness relative to SLRs of comparable ability remains a strong point in its favor among enthusiasts.

The SP is very small and light, with a tack-sharp 42mm f/1.7 lens of 7 elements in 5 groups. Resolution at all f/stops is outstanding. The lens uses 49mm filters and hoods.

The Olympus 35 SPN is a nearly identical model, with the same specifications but small minor cosmetic differences. The only noticeable addition is the battery check light above the battery check button. The Olympus 35 UC is again another variant with the same specs with slightly different cosmetics.

Olympus 35 SPN image by Denny Narciso (Image rights)

Olympus 35 UC image by TOKYO COUNTRY BOY (Image rights)

Links

• Detailed info at Cameraquest.com
• Manual Camera User's Opinion about the 35 SP
• Manual Camera User's Opinion about the 35 UC
• 35 SP manual at Mike Butkus Orphan Cameras
• 35 SP on Olympus Global History (archived).
• Lionel's Olympus 35 SP overview in french at 35mm-compact.com
• 35 SP on www.collection-appareils.fr by Sylvain Halgand (in French)