Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Best Selling in Film Cameras
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the ultimate lightweight camera of the 70s,spawning a host of clones from other manufacturers, this was the first and the best in easy to carry anywhere cameras, from the top of everest to down the bottom of the garden,A 70S ICON.
This is the first time I've used an OM1. Initial impressions are that it is a simple camera and much smaller and lighter than models of this era from Nikon, Pentax and Canon. This impression quickly changes once you look through the viewfinder and start to use the machine. The view seems much larger and clearer than the others. Then there's the straightforward on/of switch. No fiddling or having to change positions to use this function. Then the sudden realisation that everything else, apart from the meter works without using this switch. This beautifully made machine does not shout 'I've got lots of features' at you. But then you look: It's got a mirror lock up button. You change film speed by lifting up and turning the dial by the shutter release. It has a depth of field preview facility.... Shutter speed selection is on the lens barrel, too. You quickly begin to take on board that this has been designed by a superior brain. The lens button which allows you to see depth of field is on the lens in exactly the right place for your finger to press. No need to change positions or look at where the DOF switch is situated. Another big difference from the others is that the aperture ring is at the front of the lens. Exactly where it should be. Why didn't the others think of this? It's so easy to use. The lens itself is faultless. Positive but really smooth focussing with exactly the right resistance, similar in feel to the Takumars. But easier because of the easily gripped rubber fabric ring. This camera may be all manual but it inspires you to keep finding shots because it is such a dream to use. When you stop using the camera and consider it as a piece of workmanship, again you are impressed. It is so well made. Really solid, but not heavy or cumbersome. Reminds me of the feel of a Leica rangefinder camera from around this period. Looking at the base plate simply reaffirms this. A precision fit cap for the battery. A similar cap for where the motor drive engages and of course, the two contact points for the drive if you should choose to fit one. Lastly, the quality of the shots taken through the two OM lenses that I have tried so far. Unless you are talking about a bench test, I rate these lenses every bit as good as any I've used. You would be nit picking to find any shortcomings. Excellent contrast and sharpness. No obvious aberrations even at wide open. I am seriously impressed. Why did it take me over forty years to discover such a major influence on the progress of the SLR concept? Since picking up the OM1 I have learned that Zuiko roughly translates as 'blissful light'.. I now know why they use this name. Finally, it has dawned on me.Read full review
I've been using Olympus cameras for just over a year now: originally I had an OM-10 but recently upgraded to an OM-1 and am very happy! I bought the camera because the OM-10 ran out of power while the shutter was open and it caused 3 photos (the previous and next on the film) to over expose, and the OM-1 never runs out of power: it has a fully manual shutter. I like the portability, size, the fact that there are no electronic components, and the whole Olympus range. You can get loads of official and unofficial lenses alike (I've got a 600mm, 150mm, 35-70mm and a 24mm and the whole lot maybe cost £100 at most which is really cheap). I can't actually think of anything I don't like. The camera is prone to wobble when taking photos, but you can easily lock up the mirror and avoid this! Very pleased and would recommend for any photographer!Read full review