Canon Demi Rapid (1965)
A half-frame rangefinder camera made for the short-lived Agfa Rapid film system, released in June 1965.
Overview
The Canon Demi Rapid is a half-frame rangefinder camera introduced by Canon in June 1965. It was designed specifically to work with the Agfa Rapid Film System, a cartridge-based film format launched to compete with Kodak’s 126 cartridge film. This model is one of six versions in the Demi series produced between February 1963 and April 1967. Known for its compact design and auto exposure functionality, it features a fixed SH 30mm f/1.7 lens and a CdS light meter powered by a 1.3v PX625 battery. Focus is set by scale, not rangefinder coupling, despite being categorized as a rangefinder. The camera includes a self-timer lever located on the right front panel, activated by moving it up and toward the lens barrel.
Specifications
| Lens | SH 30mm f/1.7 |
| Focus Mode | Scale |
| Meter | CdS |
| Battery | 1.3v PX625 |
| Film System | Agfa Rapid Film System |
| Exposure | auto exposure |
| Control | self timer lever on the right front panel, activated by moving it up and towards the lens barrel |
Context
The Canon Demi Rapid was developed to support the Agfa Rapid film system, which entered the market as a competitor to Kodak’s 126 cartridge film. While the Olympus Pen, released in 1959, was the first Japanese half-frame camera, the Demi Rapid arrived later as part of Canon’s broader Demi line. Its design reflects the trend toward compact, easy-to-use cameras for amateur photographers during the mid-1960s.
Market
A used Canon Demi Rapid was listed for sale at C $109.12, indicating modest collector interest. All available information comes from a single eBay listing, limiting verification of broader market trends or common mechanical issues.
eBay Listings
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