Olympus C-460 Zoom (2004–2006)

The Olympus C-460 Zoom is a compact 4-megapixel digital camera from the Camedia C-series. It was announced at CeBIT in February 2004 alongside two siblings under the banner “Three new Olympus digital cameras.” The press materials pitched the “del Sol” variant as a travel companion “for fun in the sun.” A UK-only version launched as an exclusive at Dixons Tax Free stores in major UK airports, with an RRP of £249.99 including VAT. A second press release, dated 12/02/04, carried the headline “Sharper images at an amazing price.” Photography Blog (February 2004) covered the announcement of the C-460 ZOOM as a Dixons exclusive and noted its 4-megapixel sensor and 3x optical zoom.

The camera had a 3x optical zoom, a Super Macro mode that focused from as close as 7 cm, and a movie function with sound. Olympus touted an “optimised image processing system.” The C-460 Zoom also worked with the Olympus Software Development Kit (SDK), which allowed computer control of zoom, exposure, and shutter release. The body was compact and light - one Russian marketplace listing noted its portability - and it belonged to the C-series line known for quality and portability.

The record has some inconsistencies. One source gives production years as 2004-2006, while others vaguely say “early 2000s.” The alternate naming is muddled. Some sources say it was also known as the D-580 Zoom, while another page calls it the D-590 Zoom. The conflicting alternate name is left out here rather than guessed at. The sources don't document detailed lens specs (focal length, aperture), ISO range, battery type, storage media, LCD details, or weight and dimensions.

Here is what survives in the market. A Retro Camera Shop listing asks $28.00, a Russian Avito listing asks 1,000 ₽, and a downloadable user manual sits on Manualsnet. JuzaPhoto lists an average price of €210 and hosts user photos, but records no votes or substantive opinions. It is a modest entry in Olympus's mid-2000s compact lineup.

4.0 effective megapixels, 1/2.7" sensor
3x optical zoom
Super Macro from 7 cm
Movie mode with sound
Announced February 2004 (CeBIT); UK-only version exclusive to Dixons Tax Free, £249.99 RRP