Canon A-1, Which model is best

[Paul Tomlinson]

I am looking at buying a Canon 35 mm SLR but i do want one of the older type manual one's.

I have a AE-1 but i would like to back it up with one of the same type, can anyone tell me which model to go for.

Many thanks

 

[Knikki]

Canon A-1 was I think the first multi function Canon camera. So it gave you Aperature, Sutter Priorty Program and Manual. A fine camera in it day and if you can get one for a bargin good buy. The only thing to be wary of is "Mirror squeak". Really annoying but I think can be fixed easily.

The two other machines would be the T-90 or the F1.

The T90 is the forrunner to the EOS 1 machines. Built in motor drive, Center weight, Partial and a Spot Meter (up to 8 spot readings and the camera will work it out for you)
I have one of these really good machine.

Some will say the F1 is the pinical of the older manual Canon cameras. It was a proffesional machine. If you like a litttle bit of automation then go for the New F1 (F1N AE its called) as I think is Aperature Proirity camera. The older one is completley manual.

There you go a couple of machine to think of. If it was me I would go for the T90.

 

[Willid1]

I would second the T-90. I would still be using mine today if it were not for the lure of Digital (free image capture basically). I bought mine new in 1986 and was still using it last year.

They are now selling for around £100 on Ebay, that's a hell of a lot of camera for £100. And the prices of FD lenses are falling like a stone now that everyone is going digital.

Beautiful to hold and use, 5fps motor, multi spot metering, 3 metering patterns and as many metering modes as you would ever need. Oh and it takes 4 AA batteries that will last ages.

Just make sure it's been regularly used as the shutter release magnets gum up if not used, eventually requiring a trip to a repairer.

HTH

David

 

[CT]

*cough*

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?p=1019406#post1019406

 

[DUNKS]

Hi.
I can vouch for the canon A1. Just sold a couple of mine to go digital. cried a bit when they were gone. Utterly reliable, smooth to operate and the standard lens is a real cracker. With the power winder on you really have a handfull of excellent mechanics and unlike my 30D you can read the viewfinder info in any light, "or turn it off if it bothers you".
Smashing camera and they still fetch a good price unlike most older mechanicals.
Best of luck with whatever you get.