Canon Canonflex (1959)
A 35mm single-lens reflex camera introduced by Canon in 1959.
Overview
The Canon Canonflex is a 35mm SLR that Canon released in 1959. It was shown to the American public at the Philadelphia camera show, the same event where the Nikon F debuted. The Canonflex RM variant has a built-in selenium meter and a fixed prism. It launched alongside the Nikon Reflex, but it never competed well. The Nikon F quickly took over the professional SLR market.
Specifications
| Exact product name | Canon Canonflex |
| Manufacturer | Canon |
| Product type | 35mm SLR |
| Release year | 1959 |
| Special feature | Built-in selenium meter (Canonflex RM) |
| Viewfinder | Fixed prism (Canonflex RM) |
| Body depth | Very shallow among SLRs (R, FL, and FD mount models) |
Context
The Canonflex came out at the same time as the Nikon Reflex and appeared at the Philadelphia camera show next to the Nikon F. Canon made an effort, but the Nikon F rapidly overshadowed it and became the preferred professional SLR. The Canonflex series was Canon's early entry into the 35mm SLR market. It did not reach the same level of success or longevity.
Market
Forum listings describe the Canon Canonflex RM as "very collectible (and usable)." Multiple units have appeared for sale in very good working condition, which points to ongoing collector interest and an active market.
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