CANON FT QL
The Canon FT QL is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera introduced in 1966. It was Canon’s first SLR with the Quick Load film loading system. It sat between amateur and professional photographers, pairing advanced metering with easier film handling, and it moved Canon a step toward modern SLR design.
Overview
Canon released the FT QL in March 1966 as a mid-tier SLR for serious amateurs and advanced enthusiasts, at a time of rapid change in the Japanese camera industry. It reportedly followed the Canonflex series and preceded the influential Canon F-1, and it acted as a testbed for features that became standard later. It had through-the-lens (TTL) metering, using a CdS (cadmium sulfide) cell to read light reflected off the focusing screen. It may not have been the first Canon SLR with center-weighted metering. Readings were more accurate than external meters or the clip-on accessories common then.
The most distinctive feature was the "Quick Load" (QL) system. Close the back and the leader advances to the take-up spool automatically, so there is no threading film by hand. Other manufacturers later adopted the idea. It cut down on loading mistakes and made the camera easier for less experienced photographers. The FT QL took both Canon’s FL lenses and the newer FD lenses (via stop-down metering). The shutter was fully mechanical, so it worked without batteries, though the meter needed power.
The camera was part of Canon’s move from rangefinder dominance to SLR leadership. It was reportedly succeeded around 1971 by the Canon FX and later the F-1, which built on the FT QL with better durability and professional-grade construction.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | 35mm Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) |
| Film Format | 35mm (135 cartridge) |
| Years Produced | 1966–1972 |
| Lens Mount | Canon FL Mount (supports FL lenses natively; early FD lenses can be used with stop-down metering) |
| Shutter | Horizontal-travel, focal-plane cloth shutter; speeds from 1 sec to 1/1000 sec, plus Bulb (B) |
| Metering | TTL (through-the-lens) CdS metering, reportedly center-weighted |
| Exposure Modes | Manual exposure only; stop-down metering |
| Viewfinder | Fixed pentaprism with microprism collar focusing aid and split-image rangefinder spot; ~94% coverage |
| Dimensions | 146 mm (W) × 95 mm (H) × 55 mm (D); Weight: ~740 g (body only, no battery or lens) |
Key Features
- Quick Load (QL) Film System: Automated film transport upon closing the back, reducing loading time and errors.
- TTL Center-Weighted Metering: First Canon SLR with built-in through-the-lens exposure metering using a CdS cell.
- Mechanical Shutter with Battery-Dependent Meter: Full mechanical operation ensures shutter works without batteries; meter requires one 1.35V PX625 mercury battery (or modern equivalents).
- FL/FD Lens Compatibility: Supports Canon FL lenses natively; FD lenses can be used in stop-down mode.
- Stop-Down Metering Lever: Allows accurate exposure measurement with non-automatic aperture lenses by manually closing the aperture.
Historical Context
The FT QL arrived while Japanese manufacturers were pushing SLR technology hard and competing fiercely with German brands like Nikon, Pentax, and Minolta. Canon had focused on rangefinders and early SLRs like the Canonflex. The FT QL shifted toward user-centric design and electronic integration. Its release coincided with growing popularity of interchangeable-lens SLRs among amateurs, who wanted both precision and ease of use.
Competitors included the Nikon F (professional-focused), the Pentax Spotmatic (also with TTL metering), and the Minolta SR-T 101. The FT QL stood out with its Quick Load system, which predated similar mechanisms like Nikon’s Quick Load (1980) by over a decade. The Pentax Spotmatic (1964) was an early adopter of TTL metering, and it is unclear whether it beat Canon to market with the feature. The FT QL offered a competitive alternative with superior ergonomics and film handling. Reception was positive, particularly in North America and Europe, where the ease of use appealed to advancing amateurs. The downside is its reliance on mercury batteries, now obsolete, which makes it harder to use today.
Collectibility & Value
Collectors regard the FT QL as a historically significant model, especially those interested in the evolution of Canon SLRs or early TTL metering. It is not as rare as the Canon Pellix or Canonflex, but it is less common than contemporaries like the Pentax Spotmatic, which keeps collector interest moderate. In good working condition, prices typically range from $30 to $90 USD, depending on lens inclusion, cosmetic state, and meter functionality.
When buying an FT QL, check the shutter at all speeds, look for mirror bounce or a sluggish return, and inspect the light seals, which often degrade after decades. The CdS meter is prone to failure from aging cells or corrosion. Original PX625 mercury batteries are no longer available, and modern alkaline or silver oxide replacements (e.g., Wein Cell) may need voltage adjustment for accurate readings. Lenses commonly paired with the FT QL include the Canon FL 50mm f/1.8 or f/1.4, which are themselves collectible. Cameras with original boxes, manuals, and accessories command premium prices.
Similar Cameras
- Pentax Spotmatic (1964–1976): TTL metering, M42 screw mount, highly influential SLR with strong collector base.
- Nikon F (1959–1973): Professional-grade SLR with interchangeable viewfinders and extensive lens support.
- Minolta SR-T 101 (1966–1971): Robust build, CLC metering, and reliable mechanical performance.
- Yashica TL Electro-X (1970): Electronic shutter with CdS metering, part of Yashica’s high-end SLR line.
- Topcon RE Super (1963–1971): Advanced TTL metering and high-quality optics, favored by professionals.
Repair & Maintenance
The Canon FT QL uses two 1.35V PX625 mercury batteries to power its CdS meter. Modern alternatives such as the Wein Cell MRB625 (mercury-free) or adapters for 1.5V SR44 batteries are commonly used. Voltage mismatch can lead to overexposure, so a step-down adapter or meter recalibration is recommended. The mechanical shutter does not need batteries, so the camera still works with a dead meter.
Common issues are degraded light seals (causing light leaks), sticky shutter curtains at slow speeds, and oxidation on battery contacts. The Quick Load mechanism is generally reliable but may jam if foreign debris gets into the film chamber. A CLA (clean, lubricate, adjust) by a technician experienced with vintage Canon SLRs is advised every 5-10 years. Replacement parts are limited but available through specialized vintage camera suppliers or donor bodies. The viewfinder screen can be replaced, though original types are preferred. Overall, the FT QL is considered moderately repairable with proper tools and knowledge.
Market Value
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ CANON FT QL Nov 2026 │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ High $190 Latest $39 │ │ Median $82 Trend — │ │ Low $30 Volume ~14/mo │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ $200 ┤ │ │ │ . . . . │ │ │ . . . . . .. . │ │ $114 ┤ .. . . . . . . . │ │ │ . ... .. ..... . . . .. . .. . . . .│ │ │. .. . .. ... ..... ... . ... . .. .. ... │ │ │ .. . . .. .. . . .. ... .│ │ $0 ┤ │ │ ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ vol │▁ ▁▄▂▁▁▁▆ ▁▄▂▄▃▂ █▃▃▄▆ ▄▄▆▃▁▁▃▄▃▄▂▁▁▂▂▄▁▁▂▃ ▄▄▅ ▂│ │ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ 2025-12 2026-04 2026-08│ └──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
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eBay Listings
Recently sold on eBay: $49–$146 (median $82, based on 123 completed sales, past 12 months)
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