Olympus Pen S (1960–1967)

A half-frame 35mm viewfinder camera with manual controls and a 30mm f/3.5 Zuiko lens.

Overview

The Olympus Pen S is a compact half-frame 35mm film camera introduced in 1960 as part of Olympus' innovative Pen series. It captures 18x24mm images on standard 35mm film, effectively doubling the number of exposures per roll. The Pen S 3.5 variant, released in January 1965, replaced both the original Pen and the Pen S 2.8 model. It features fully manual operation, distance-based focusing with premarked settings at 2m, 5m, and infinity, and a robust, solidly built design. This model was sold until 1967 and was marketed as an affordable, portable option for everyday photography.

Specifications

Lens	Zuiko 1:3.5 f=30mm
Film format	Half-frame 35mm (18x24mm)
Shutter	Copal shutter
Shutter speeds	B, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250 second
Flash	PC sync port
Dimensions	108mm x 68mm x 40mm
Weight	370g (Pen S 3.5), 400g (general Pen S)

Design

The Olympus Pen S features fully manual settings and a distance-focusing system with premarked points at 2m, 5m, and infinity.

Context

The Pen S 3.5 replaced both the original Olympus Pen and the Pen S 2.8 in January 1965, marking a shift toward more accessible pricing while maintaining optical quality. It was part of Olympus' broader Pen series, which included compact and SLR models designed for half-frame 35mm film. The Pen S 3.5 was positioned as a practical, lightweight camera for amateur photographers seeking portability and efficiency.

Market

A clean, working Olympus Pen S typically sells for $80–100, with the Pen S 3.5 in very good condition valued at $50–60 and mint examples reaching $90–100. The rare black variant is a sought-after collector's item, fetching $250 or more.