Canon Canonflex R2000 (1960–1962)
A 35mm SLR camera with the fastest shutter speed of any model in its class at the time of release.
Overview
The Canon Canonflex R2000 is a 35mm SLR camera introduced by Canon in June 1960 as a successor to the original Canonflex. It was released alongside the RP model and was considered the superior of the two. The most notable upgrade was its top shutter speed of 1/2000 second, a first for 35mm SLR cameras at the time. The camera is nearly identical in design to the original Canonflex, with the primary difference being this increased shutter speed. A matching clip-on exposure meter was modified to support the 1/2000 speed setting.
Specifications
| Top shutter speed | 1/2000 |
Design
The Canonflex R2000 is nearly identical in construction to the original Canonflex, with the key difference being the addition of a 1/2000 second shutter speed. The clip-on exposure meter was also updated to include this speed, ensuring compatibility and accurate metering for the faster setting.
Context
The Canonflex R2000 replaced the original Canonflex in June 1960, marking a significant technical advancement with its class-leading 1/2000 second shutter speed. It held this distinction as the fastest among all 35mm SLR cameras when launched. Production ended in January 1962 after approximately 8,800 units were made.
Market
Black-bodied models of the Canonflex R2000, paired with a matching black clip-on meter, are especially rare and highly sought after by collectors.
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