Chinon 872 (1971)

A Super 8 movie camera with power zoom and synchro sound, marketed in 1971.

Overview

The Chinon 872 is a Super 8 movie camera made by Chinon and marketed in 1971. It has a built-in power zoom lens and supports synchro sound recording, which suggests it works with external audio gear. It was sold with an original leather case. The body is covered in black leatherette with a silver metal plate. Some users call it heavy and unwieldy. It is still a collectible for Super 8 film fans.

Specifications

Film format	silent super 8 cartridge
Lens	Chinon Reflex Zoom f: 1.7 / F: 7.5–60 mm
Zoom ratio	8x
Focusing	Microprism focusing
Zoom control	Auto / Manual Zoom with 2 Speeds
Frame rates	12, 18, 32 + single frame
Power source	4 x AA
Battery check button	yes
Movie light socket	screw type
ASA/Film speed markings	16, 25, 40, 64, 100, 14, 25, 45, 64, 100, 100, 150

Design

The Chinon 872 has a power zoom mechanism and a "Synchro sound" system for synchronized audio recording. The body is black leatherette with a silver metal plate. It also has a battery check button and a screw-type movie light socket.

Market

The Chinon 872 had an original price of £96 in England when it came out in 1971. Recent sales include listings from $215 to $233. One unit sold for £25 at auction in 2023, and another was listed for £10 in working condition. Some units are advertised as professionally serviced, which suggests they may need maintenance to run reliably.