Canon IV-SB2 (1954–1956)
A 35mm rangefinder camera made by Canon between 1954 and 1956, with a cloth focal plane shutter and manual focus.
Overview
The Canon IV-SB2 is a 35mm rangefinder camera that Canon produced from 1954 to 1956. It belongs to the series of rangefinder bodies Canon developed in the early 1950s. It is a "Barnack" rangefinder, often grouped with the cameras called 'Leica copies', and it was part of Canon's move toward high-quality mechanical cameras. It was the last of Canon's knob-wind rangefinders. Canon made 16,800 units, and most were sold outside Japan. The combined viewfinder and rangefinder has adjustable magnification, and the build is noted as solid.
Specifications
| Film Type | 35mm roll |
| Focus Type | Manual focus (only) |
| Lens Mount | Canon S |
| Lens Mount | Leica Thread Mount (LTM), also known as M39 |
| Shutter | Cloth focal plane shutter |
| Shutter Speeds | 1–1/1000s |
| Shutter Speeds | B to 1/1000 |
| Slow Speeds Dial | With slow speeds on a second dial |
| Flash Sync | X-synch marked on slow speed dial at 1/15s area; slow dial locked at 1/30s. X |
| Viewfinder | Combined viewfinder/rangefinder with adjustable magnification (three settings) |
Design
The Canon IV-SB2 has a knob-wind mechanism and came in a solid chromium finish. The construction is built for mechanical precision and durability, like other high-end rangefinders of the era.
Context
The IV-SB2 was one of Canon's final knob-wind rangefinders, and it closed out a development line that began in the early 1950s. Canon produced 16,800 units, and it sold well, particularly in international markets. It sits in the 'Leica copy' class of cameras and shows Canon refining mechanical rangefinder design in the mid-1950s.
Market
Recent listings show a Canon IV-SB2 body with 50mm f/2.8 and 28mm f/3.5 lenses priced at $600 shipped. A black body is estimated to be worth about $400. The model appears in the CollectiBlend price guide.
eBay Listings
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