A fully mechanical 35mm SLR built for reliability and versatility across photography disciplines.
Overview
The Olympus OM-1 is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera manufactured by Olympus. It is fully mechanical, allowing operation without batteries, though it includes a CdS full-aperture metering system powered by a 1.35V mercury battery. Designed for precision and durability, the OM-1 was marketed as a tool capable of handling diverse photographic applications, from photojournalism to astrophotography. Its compact form and manual operation made it a favorite among photographers seeking simplicity and mechanical reliability.
Specifications
| Lens mount | Olympus OM mount |
| Recording medium | 135 film |
| Shutter speed | 1/1000s – 1s, Bulb mode |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60s |
| ISO range | ISO 25–1600 |
| Metering system | Orthodox CdS full-aperture type |
| Exposure display | Match needle system |
| Battery | 1.35V mercury battery (JIS H-D type) |
| Weight | 490 g (OM-1); 510 g (OM-1n) |
| Dimensions | 136×83×50 mm |
Design
The OM-1 features a unique control layout: the shutter speed scale is located on a ring surrounding the lens bayonet mount, while the film speed dial occupies the position typically used for the shutter speed dial on other cameras. The exposure meter is directly coupled to the shutter speed ring, aperture ring, and ASA film speed dial, enabling accurate exposure settings without stopping down.
Context
Market
The OM-1 is occasionally found on repair benches, indicating ongoing maintenance activity among users and collectors. It remains a durable platform, with many units still functional decades after production.
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