Agfa Selectronic 1 (1980–1983)
Manual 35mm SLR with unique orange shutter button and split-image focus aid, built by Chinon for Agfa.
Overview
The Agfa Selectronic 1 is a 35mm film SLR made from around 1980 until 1983. It was one of three models in Agfa's last try at the consumer SLR market. There is no exposure automation. You set everything by hand, guided by light-emitting diodes in the viewfinder. Chinon built it, and it is based on the Chinon CM-4s. Agfa had it styled with rounded edges, a matte coating, and a huge orange sensor release button. The button is actually a foil-covered micro switch, and it is unique to Agfa. Agfa marketed it as "the camera for purists." It lacks superfluous features, and it is praised for being straightforward to operate and durable in function. The viewfinder has a split-image rangefinder with a microprism collar and is described as reasonably bright.
Specifications
| Shutter Speed | 1 second to 1/1000 second |
| Exposure Setting | Manually set using light-emitting diodes |
| Automation | No automation ("keinerlei Automatik") |
| Lens Mount | Pentax K bayonet |
| Flash Sync Speed | 1/60 sec |
| Viewfinder | Split-image rangefinder with microprism collar |
| Battery | Three LR44/SR44 batteries |
| Multiple Exposure | Controlled via a somewhat peculiar screw |
| Self-Timer | Two-stage, purely electronic with 5 and 10 second delay, red blinking light |
| Additional Features | Flash hot shoe, depth-of-field preview button, exposure value memory lock, winder connection |
Design
The rounded edges and matte coating give the Selectronic 1 a soft, futuristic look, described as an "optical powerhouse." The film advance lever is plastic. The build feels like simpler Japanese mid-range rather than premium German engineering. The shutter release is a large orange button, unique to Agfa, made of a stable foil over a micro switch. It is not a true sensor. Plastic parts aside, the camera is noted for its durability and ease of use. The controls are intuitive, and there is a two-stage electronic self-timer.
Context
The Selectronic 1 was part of a three-model line (Selectronic 1, 2, 3) known as the "Agfa-Trio," introduced around 1980. As the base model with no automation, it competed in a saturated market against Minolta, Nikon, Olympus, and Canon. Agfa tried a depot sales system to keep dealers profitable. Cheaper competition undermined it, such as Foto-Quelle selling identical Chinon-based models under the Revue brand. Agfa abandoned the system in 1982. The Selectronic series was sold through agencies and special dealer sections to simulate exclusivity, but the line was not successful. It was Agfa's last and costly venture into SLR cameras before it exited the consumer market.
Market
Light seals may need replacement in surviving units. A printed manual is available for purchase, and a full test report from *Amateur Photographer* exists.
Similar items on eBay
No exact Agfa Selectronic 1 listings are live right now — these searches show current Agfa and similar vintage camera gear on eBay:
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.