OLYMPUS OM-2N
The Olympus OM-2n is an updated OM-2, released in 1979 as part of Olympus's compact, lightweight 35mm SLR system. It has TTL (through-the-lens) off-the-film (OTF) metering. It was built to be more reliable and easier to use than the OM-2, and it kept the compact body of the OM series.
Overview
Olympus introduced the OM-2n in 1979 as a refined version of the original OM-2, which had debuted in 1975. It was positioned as a professional and advanced amateur SLR. It kept the compact design of the OM system and added mechanical and electrical improvements for durability and use. It belonged to the OM series, which began with the OM-1 in 1972 and made Olympus a serious competitor to Nikon, Canon, and Pentax in the 35mm SLR market.
The OM-2n was engineered for reliable, precise exposure control in both ambient and flash photography. The key piece is the TTL OTF metering system. It measured light reflected off the film surface during exposure, which allowed accurate exposure control even with off-the-film flash. The system gave automatic exposure in aperture-priority mode and manual exposure with real-time feedback in the viewfinder. The "n" marked minor updates: a redesigned shutter release button, an improved film advance mechanism, and better electrical contacts for TTL flash.
The OM-2n was aimed at photojournalists, working professionals, and serious enthusiasts. It was praised for its build quality, compact size, and metering. It competed directly with the Nikon FM2, Canon AE-1 Program, and Pentax ME Super. It stayed in production until 1984, when the OM-2S (OM-2 Spot Program) replaced it, adding spot metering and a more durable shutter.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | 35mm Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) |
| Film Format | 35mm (135 film) |
| Years Produced | 1979–1984 |
| Lens Mount | Olympus OM bayonet mount |
| Shutter | Vertical-travel focal-plane shutter; speeds from 1 to 1/1000 sec, plus Bulb (B), and flash sync at 1/60 sec |
| Metering | TTL off-the-film (OTF) center-weighted average metering |
| Exposure Modes | Aperture-priority auto, manual (with match-needle metering), and TTL flash auto |
| Viewfinder | Fixed pentaprism with 97% coverage, 0.92× magnification; standard focusing screen with microprism collar and split-image rangefinder |
| Dimensions | 136 × 83 × 50 mm (5.4 × 3.3 × 2.0 in); ~570 g (body only, no battery) |
Key Features
- TTL Off-the-Film Metering: Measures exposure during the actual exposure by reading light reflected off the film, enabling precise ambient and flash exposure control.
- Aperture-Priority & Manual Exposure: Offers both automated and manual shooting modes with a match-needle display in the viewfinder for precise manual metering.
- TTL Flash Compatibility: Fully supports TTL flash automation with compatible Olympus flashes (e.g., T32, T28), allowing automatic flash exposure without manual calculations.
- Compact OM System Design: Maintains the OM series’ reputation for small size and balanced handling, ideal for travel and documentary photography.
- Improved Mechanical Reliability: Features a redesigned film advance lever and shutter release for smoother operation and reduced wear over time.
Historical Context
The OM-2n came out while manufacturers were rapidly adding electronic automation to mechanical cameras. Olympus had already shaken up the market with the compact OM-1, and it wanted automation without giving up reliability. The OM-2n addressed early reliability concerns with the OM-2, particularly electrical contacts and shutter mechanism durability. The redesign focused on ergonomics and flash compatibility, and photojournalists and wedding photographers who relied on flash preferred it.
At the time, the OM-2n competed with a wave of electronically controlled SLRs, including the Nikon FE (1978), Canon AE-1 (1976), and Pentax ME (1976). Some competitors offered more automation (e.g., program modes). The OM-2n had its build, precise metering, and tight integration with Olympus's growing OM flash system. It was particularly valued in low-light and event photography because of its reliable TTL flash performance. It had no program mode, but its aperture-priority system and manual flexibility appealed to experienced photographers who wanted creative control.
Collectibility & Value
Today the Olympus OM-2n is sought after by film photography enthusiasts and OM system collectors. Its compact size, mechanical reliability, and TTL flash support make it a practical body for vintage Olympus lenses. In the current market (2023-2024), working OM-2n bodies typically sell for $150 - $250 USD, depending on condition and shutter functionality. Fully functional units with clean viewfinders and accurate metering command higher prices.
Anyone buying an OM-2n should check that the meter is responsive and calibrated, since aging selenium cells and weak batteries (two 1.55V SR44 or one 3V DL/CR1/3N battery) can affect performance. Common issues are a stiff shutter release, worn film advance levers, and degraded light seals. The camera uses a CdS (cadmium sulfide) metering cell, which generally lasts a long time but can fail after decades of use. Specialized vintage camera technicians can do repairs, though replacement parts are not always easy to find.
Similar Cameras
- Nikon FE – Mechanically robust SLR with aperture-priority and manual modes, excellent build quality, and Nikon F-mount compatibility.
- Canon AE-1 – Popular electronic SLR with shutter-priority automation, widely supported by accessories and lenses.
- Pentax ME Super – Compact aperture-priority and manual SLR with TTL metering and K-mount lens compatibility.
- Minolta X-700 – Feature-rich SLR with program mode, TTL flash, and excellent viewfinder display.
- Yashica FR-I – Rugged, fully manual SLR with Copal Square shutter and reliable metering, compatible with Contax/Yashica mount.
Repair & Maintenance
The OM-2n uses a 3V battery (typically two 1.55V SR44 silver oxide or one 3V DL/CR1/3N lithium battery) to power its CdS metering cell and shutter control circuitry. The battery connects through spring contacts. They can corrode over time, so cleaning is often necessary during servicing. The metering system is generally reliable but should be checked for accuracy, especially if the camera has sat stored for years.
Common mechanical issues include sluggish shutter speeds at 1/1000 sec (a sign it needs a CLA - clean, lubricate, adjust), sticky film advance, and light leaks from deteriorated foam seals. The shutter is a vertical-travel metal-blade design, rated for 300,000 cycles, but performance may degrade without maintenance. Repair difficulty is moderate. The camera is well-documented, but internal access requires precision disassembly. Replacement parts such as foam seals, batteries, and focusing screens are available from specialty vendors, but shutter components are increasingly scarce. Regular use and dry storage are recommended.
Market Value
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ OLYMPUS OM-2N Nov 2026 │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ High $1,180 Latest $136 │ │ Median $220 Trend — │ │ Low $65 Volume ~39/mo │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ $2,000 ┤ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ $1,164 ┤ .. │ │ │ . . .. . │ │ │ . .... │ │ │. . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . │ │ $50 ┤........... ................. .............. .....│ │ ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ vol │█▁▃▂▄▅▄▃▃▃▃ ▂▃▃▁▄▁▇▁▂▁▅▄▃▄▂▇▁ ▁▄▄▂▂▃▅▁▃▆▃▁▂▄▁▁▁▂▁▁▁ ▁ ▁ ▁▃▂▃▁│ │ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ 2026-02 2026-05 2026-08│ └──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
eBay completed sales. Excludes accessories, parts, and non-working units. Hover points for details.
eBay Listings
Recently sold on eBay: $113–$350 (median $220, based on 272 completed sales, past 12 months)
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