Chinon Bellami (1980)
A compact 35mm point-and-shoot camera with a retractable 35mm f/2.8 lens and zone focusing.
Overview
The Chinon Bellami is a compact 35mm point-and-shoot film camera. Chinon International Corp built it in Tokyo, Japan, starting in 1980. The lens is a fixed Chinonex (Tessar-type) 35mm f/2.8 on a retractable mount. Focusing is by zone, with preset distances of 1m, 1.5m, and 2m, then infinity. Exposure is automatic, so focus is the only thing you set. Two LR44 or SR44 batteries power the metering and the low-light warning.
Specifications
| Type | 35 mm EE Compact Camera with Retractable Lens System |
| Negative Size | 24 x 36 mm |
| Film | 35 mm Film |
| Lens | F/2.8 35 mm |
| Lens Type | Chinonex (Tessar type) |
| Apertures | auto |
| Shutter Speed | 1/8s – 1/1000s |
| Focusing System | zone focusing |
| Focus Range | 1 m to infinity (3.5 feet to infinity) |
| Dimensions | 105 (L) x 63 (H) x 33 (W) mm (4.13" x 2.48" x 1.29") — dust cover closed |
| Weight | 220 g (8.8 oz.) |
| Batteries | 2x LR44 or SR44 |
Design
You set focus by hand at the lens barrel, in zone steps. Everything else is automatic, which makes it an everything-auto camera. The two LR44 or SR44 batteries run the metering system and the low-light warning indicator.
Context
The Bellami is about the size of the Revue XE and the Minolta TC-1. All three are among the smallest full-frame 35mm film cameras of their era.
Market
The Bellami has turned up at flea markets for around $13.50 (1,500 dinars). It is described as an inexpensive, easy-to-use point-and-shoot, often available for under $50 in the current market.
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