Chinon SLR (c. 1980)

Name: Chinon SLR
Brand: Chinon

A 35mm automatic SLR camera with aperture-priority exposure and manual focus, introduced around 1980.

Overview

The Chinon SLR, specifically the Chinon CE-4, is a 35mm electronic film SLR introduced around 1980. It has aperture-priority automatic exposure, manual focusing and a vertical metal focal-plane shutter. It uses the Pentax K-mount, which was a change from Chinon's earlier M42 screw mount. Chinon showed it at the 1979 PMA show in Chicago, and it began appearing in the market in 1980. It was positioned as a midrange SLR and is noted for its solid build and its compatibility with a wide range of K-mount lenses.

Specifications

Shutter speed range	4s - 1/1000s + B
ISO range	25 - 3200
Body Dimensions	135.5 (W) x 85.0 (H) x 50.5 (D) mm
Body Weight	485 grams
Lens Mount	Pentax K-mount
Focus	Manual, 1.47 feet to infinity
Power	Accepts power
Metering system	Manual (L.E.D.) metering system
Self-timer	Yes

Design

The CE-4 has a rugged bayonet lens mount, a film advance lever, built-in unlimited multiple exposure capability and a frame counter. It was the first Chinon SLR to adopt the Pentax K-mount. Earlier models like the CE-3 used the M42 screw mount. The camera supports both automatic and manual operation modes and accepts lenses with a universal bayonet mount, with optional adapters for thread-mount lenses.

Context

Chinon was categorized as a fourth-tier camera manufacturer alongside brands like Zenit and Kiev. The CE-4 was marketed as an affordable, capable alternative to higher-end Japanese SLRs, with aperture-priority automation and K-mount flexibility. It was advertised in 1979 and became available in 1980, in a growing market of accessible electronic SLRs.

Market

The CE-4 has turned up in recent sales at various prices, including listings at $69.95 and €109. One user reported buying one for £14 in fully working condition. Online communities call it a "poor man's Pentax" and a "highly underrated entry into analog photography," and praise its usability and value.