Chinon CE-4 (c. 1980)
A 35mm SLR that marked Chinon’s shift to the Pentax K-mount, offering both automatic and manual exposure modes.
Overview
The Chinon CE-4 is a 35mm single-lens reflex camera made by Chinon Industries Inc., first introduced around 1980. It was one of the company's early SLRs to adopt the Pentax K-mount, transitioning from the older M42 screw mount used in previous models like the CE-3. The camera supports both automatic and manual exposure modes, with an electronically controlled metal focal plane shutter and a stepless speed range from 8 seconds to 1/1000 second when set to AUTO. It features a film advance lever, frame counter, and a two-stage electronic self-timer.
Specifications
| Type | 35mm automatic SLR |
| Lens Mount | Pentax K-mount |
| Shutter | Electronically Controlled Metal Focal Plane Shutter |
| Shutter speeds | Stepless speeds from 8 to 1/1000 sec |
| Synch Speed | 1/60s |
| ISO Range | 25 - 3200 |
| Viewing magnification | 0.87X, 92% Fov |
| Focus | 1.47 feet to Infinity |
| Body Dimensions | 135.5 x 85 x 50.5mm |
| Body Weight | 485g |
| Standard Lens | Chinon 50mm F/1.4 |
| Flash compatibility | Two dedicated CHINON electronic flashes |
Design
The Chinon CE-4 features an electronic design with automatic and manual exposure capabilities, built around the widely supported Pentax K-mount. It includes a film advance lever and electronic controls for shutter and self-timer operation. As Chinon’s first SLR using the K-mount, it represented a strategic shift from the M42 screw mount used in earlier models.
Context
Introduced around 1979 and reaching the market in 1980, the CE-4 was part of a new generation of Chinon SLRs that aligned with the growing popularity of the Pentax K-mount standard. It preceded the CE-4S and CE-5 models, with the CE-4S offering updated shutter control. The camera was positioned as a capable midrange option, offering flexibility for both novice and experienced photographers.
Market
Recent finds include working units acquired for $15 at thrift stores and £14 in secondhand markets, suggesting it remains an affordable entry into vintage K-mount photography. Some listings include bonus lenses and original paperwork, indicating continued interest among film enthusiasts.
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