Chinon CM-4s (1982)
A 35mm SLR camera with manual exposure control and a mechanical self-timer, released in 1982.
Overview
The Chinon CM-4s is a 35mm film SLR from 1982. Exposure is fully manual, with a match LED metering system. It takes a Chinon bayonet mount, so it works with a range of interchangeable lenses. The shutter is a vertical metal focal plane type. The mechanical self-timer takes the place of the LED indicator in the viewfinder. The camera was also sold as the Revue SC3 and the Vivitar XV-11.
Specifications
| Film format | 35mm |
| Shutter type | Vertical metal focal plane |
| Shutter speeds | 1 second to 1/1000 second |
| ISO range | 25 - 1600 |
| Exposure system | Manual via match LED |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Viewfinder | Bright, large viewfinder |
| Mount | Chinon Universal Bayonet Mount |
| Body dimensions | 135.5 mm (W) x 86.0 mm (H) x 50.5 mm (D) |
| Body weight | 455 grams |
Design
The CM-4s is the mechanical self-timer version of the CM-4. The self-timer mechanism sits where the viewfinder LED would be. The core design is the same as the CM-4, and the shutter speed dial doubles as the film speed selector to calibrate the light meter. The camera was offered with a prime Chinon 28mm f/2.8 lens with a 49mm filter thread, though that was not the standard kit lens.
Context
The CM-4s belongs to a series that includes the Chinon CM-5 and CM-7. It is closely related to the CS-4, which uses an M42 screw mount instead of the bayonet. A 1982 price guide listed it alongside the CM-5, which points to a shared product family and release window.
Market
The CM-4s turns up on the used market, including eBay listings, where one unit sold for $43.00 USD. A UK retailer listed it at £159.95, down from an original price of £169.95.
eBay Listings
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