Agfa Selectronic (1970–1983)
Series of 35mm cameras including viewfinder, rangefinder, and SLR models with electronic exposure control
Overview
The Agfa Selectronic series spans three distinct lines: the Selectronic Sensor (viewfinder), Selectronic Sensor S (rangefinder), and Selectronic 1, 2, and 3 (SLRs). The viewfinder and rangefinder models were introduced in 1970 and made by Agfa in Munich, featuring aperture priority auto exposure and a unique film loading mechanism with a closed receptacle and slit, exposing film upside-down. The SLR models launched in 1980 as Agfa’s first 35mm SLRs in over a decade, manufactured by Chinon Industries in Japan under the Pentax K bayonet mount. Agfa exited camera production in 1983. The SLRs were based on Chinon models—Selectronic 1 on the CM-4/CS-4, Selectronic 2 on the CA-4, and Selectronic 3 on the CE-4—each rebadged with unique styling by Schlagheck & Schultes and a distinctive reddish-orange 'Sensor Punkt' shutter release button.
Specifications
| Model | Agfa Selectronic Sensor (Viewfinder) |
| Lens | Agfa Color Apotar f/2.8 45mm (3 Elements in 3 Groups) |
| Shutter | Agfa Paratronic, 15 sec. to 1/500 sec., continuously variable |
| Exposure | Aperture priority auto exposure via CdS cell |
| Film Speed | 25–400 ASA (15–27 DIN) |
| Battery | 2 × PX625 |
| Size | 117 × 83 × 66 mm (W × H × D) |
| Weight | 470g |
| Model | Selectronic 1, 2, 3 (SLR) |
| Mount | Pentax K Bayonet |
| Standard Lens | Agfa Color Multi Coated 50mm f/1.4 |
| Focus Range | 1.5 ft / 0.45 m to infinity |
| Shutter | Seiko MFC vertically traveling metal focal plane |
| Shutter Speeds (Auto) | 8 – 1/1000 sec., stepless |
| Shutter Speeds (Manual) | B, 4 – 1/1000 sec. |
| Metering | Coupled SPD cell with aperture priority AE |
| Flash Sync | 1/60 X-sync; hot shoe with M and X sync |
| Battery | 3 × 1.5V SR44 (or LR44) |
| Weight | 740g with lens, 490g body only |
Design
The Selectronic Sensor viewfinder model derives from the Optima Sensor 500 and features an electromagnetic shutter release designed to minimize camera shake. The SLR models, rebadged Chinon bodies, include a large reddish-orange 'Sensor Punkt' shutter button and ergonomic styling by Schlagheck & Schultes. Exposure metering on SLRs activates via half-press of the shutter button, though users report difficulty metering without triggering exposure. The viewfinder models use a unique film loading system with a closed receptacle and slit, exposing the film upside-down.
Context
The Selectronic Sensor and Sensor S were replaced in 1976 by the Optima Sensor Electronic series. The SLR models targeted advanced amateurs and marked Agfa’s return to SLRs after more than ten years. The Selectronic 1 offers manual exposure, the 2 is aperture-priority only, and the 3 adds switchable manual/auto modes, reflecting a tiered product strategy aligned with Chinon’s CA-4, CM-4/CS-4, and CE-4 platforms.
Market
SLR models are relatively uncommon today and often appear without the original Agfa 50mm f/1.4 lens, which has been described as underperforming. The Selectronic S rangefinder has a known issue with the film winder jamming outside of rewind mode. Manuals and repair documents are available for purchase, supporting maintenance despite limited factory support after Agfa’s 1983 exit from camera production.
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