Olympus Pen F is technically considered an SLR because there is a mirror that flips sideways (instead of up and down in a normal SLR) and the lens can be interchanged! I have one, and it is my favorite halfframe film camera
The half-frame design translated well into the E300 4:3 digital. Great camera to use and 8mp is plenty for most work. Mirrorless killed the E-Volt line of lenses, now requiring the mirror box adapter.
@@leonarddaneman810I have the G.Zuiko 40mm f/1.4, the one shown in the video on the Pen F, with an adapter for my OM-D EM-5 Mk II micro 4/3 and it's great. Pentagonal bokeh!
The Pen F is easily one of the most gorgeous designs ever. I have a not-so-functional but mint 1963 example that I’m more than happy to just leave on the sheet as a decoration!
Hi Simon. I like your videos! I am a camera collector with about 400 cameras, you have made a very good choice! A little correction for Rollei (never Rollie!) and for Voigtländer. Almost nobody knows, that the letter i is an old German sign for spelling the o longer: we spell "Voogtländer".
The Werra 1 is definitely the camera I am going to buy. I was born beside that river “the Werra” , today it’s very beautiful. It took a couple of years to get clean. When I was young you could not swim in the Werra. Now you can. Greets from hessian Peter
I have really enjoyed this video of classic cameras. My dad owned a number of the Kodak folding cameras from the 1930s and took many photographs of New York. When I was assigned to the US Air Force Photo School in January 1962 the very first camera we were introduced to were 8x10 folding field cameras. We were surprised to find that most of these were made between 1917 and 1918. They still made some very nice photos and taught us how to be careful when loading sheet film into the wooden holders. We then moved on to the standard USAF camera, the Graflex Speed Graphic. We used all the film types of the era, Kodak XX, Plus-X, Pan-X, and Tri-X in sheet and film packs. I especially liked the Polaroid film packs which gave us an instant photo and also a 4x5 sheet film. These films were some of the best in high ASA speeds and smooth tight grain. My first SLR was the Pentax SV and I used it for many years before buying a used Leica M-2. I went back to Pentax in the digital age with the K10D, K-3, and K-1. Thanks for the memories!
A video so good I have to watch it again. I own the OM-1 and Vito II and agree the ate bot functional and beautiful. I'll add my Yashica 35, the original non electro, to my beautiful camera list. Sure a Leica copy but really well done with its own flare.
I have just acquired a Konica 11A. This is at the very top of my list of favourite cameras because it looks fantastic and the build quality is superb. I cannot recommend this beauty enough.
I have an old Hasse 500c and think/feel its the most beautiful camera I've ever seen. I love the older Canon FD cameras too, more than you I see. Hower, I do respect some of your picks, especially, the really old ones.
Silver Nikon F2 with Photomic head is IMHO the most lovely looking SLR ever. I don't find rangefinders like Leica's to be particularly pretty, but holding them is a joy because you get to feel the craftsmanship of their build.
After testing Asahi, Nikon and Canon I went for: Minolta 303b (old school look - big and heavy) + Minolta X7 (SLR of choice for everything) + Minolta TC-1 (super compact titanium) + Minolta CLE (small powerful leica)
SO SORRY I mis-spelled and mis-pronounced Rollei. Unfortunately, I can't correct the video 😞 Plus many thanks to everyone who has commented and made excellent suggestions, and important corrections (e.g. on the Olympus Pen F). I've consolidated other beautiful cameras suggested by viewers below, in this new video: studio.th-cam.com/users/videoPfEQrBadL6A/edit I'll be posting a "second/revised edition", probably within the next two weeks. 🤞 If you have strong views you don't feel like sharing below, please contact me at: simons.utak1@gmail.com Here are the time links to specific camera types: 00:54 Box cameras 04:51 Folding bellows cameras 07:23 Twin lens reflex cameras 09:05 Compact cameras (e.g. point & shoot, fixed lens, film and digital) 17:18 Interchangeable lens cameras (e.g. rangefinder, SLR, MILC)
Two German cameras that definitely belong here are the beautiful golden "Penti II" and the wonderful shiny "Zeiss Ikon Contessamat". And as a German I'm sorry I have to say that the "i" in "Voigtländer" is a silent/non spoken letter and the brand "Rollei" is "Rollei" not "Rollie" - the proof is on every Rollei camera. Thanks for the great video, the wonderful selection of stunning cameras all the research and inspiration!
I love German rangefinders from the 1950s. It was a Zeiss Ikon Contina that kicked off my camera collection. Not an expensive camera, but it has exquisite mechancial detail. And thanks for reminding us of the correct pronunciation of "Voigtländer". I've just realised that I've butchered the word over the last 40 years!
So many others as well. The Pentax Auto 110, and the ME/MX were very pretty designs, as was the Contax 159. Nikon's EM and Canon's EOS 5 were attractive as well. For digital, I think Panasonic's Lumix GM1 in silver is a design classic, and both Leica's SL, and Canon's R3 will age well. Great video. Brings back some memories.
There are 2 cameras that will always be my favourites - the Olympus OM1 and the Rollei 6006, both of which I have owned (I still have the 6006, though no longer used) and, in their day, used extensively
I have loved cameras all my life. I still have my grandfather's Kodak bellows camera from 1907, and I loved this video's review of classic cameras. I am familiar with many of them! For a modern camera design , I'd like to nominate the KanDao Qoocam EGO, a 3D stereo still and video camera, which is helping to bring back 3D to a new generation of people using VR headsets and lenticular, glasses-free tablets like the Lume Pad 2. I bought the Qoocam EGO recently, and I am still evaluating it. The design and the concept are absolutely brilliant. The camera itself is not that intuitive, however, but young purchasers will catch on quickly and love it. I think the best 3D digital camera of the last decade is the Fuji FinePix 3D W3, introduced around 2011 and which I also purchased recently. The design of this camera is absolutely wonderful. I have worked with stereo photography for much of my life (I inherited my dad's Stereo Realist from the late 1940s) and there's an almost continuous archive of stereo 3d in my family collection. I am now ready for stereo video. I live in Hawaii, I have four different stereo rigs (all used except the Qoocam) and I will be uploading stereo video to my TH-cam channel soon. I realize this is a niche and there won't be many viewers yet. But it's Hawaii. I also deplore "exploitative" photos and videos which emphasize dramatic visual effects instead of the normal 3D we all see all the time. 3D should NOT be a "gimmick". It also should not hurt peoples' eyes when watching it. That comes from poor depth editing.
What a great list of amazing cameras. The Spotmatic SP is my most beautiful camera of all time. The clean lines, the simplicity, the weight and the handling are all just perfect to me. I love replacing the leatherettes to give them even more character.
I agree. I've got a black Pentax SL, which is the spotmatic without a light meter, so it doesn't have that tacked on plastic stop-down lever, and it's by far the prettiest camera I've owned. Second up would probably be the Zeiss Ikon Nettar 517/16. The ugliest.. probably the Zenit E.
I bought Minolta 7000 in 1986 in London with two zoom lenses and a flash and it cost almost 9000 pounds. That was stolen in St. Peterburg in 1988 from a student hostel storage, later coming to Canada bought a 9000 version in the mid-90s or a little later 2nd hand and later resold it to a realtor. As I remember Minolta 7000 was the first autofocus camera. I bought 3 more cameras from 1974 to the 80s. Russian-made Kiev and Zorki cameras. They are produced in factories that were dismantled during WWII in Germany and looted by the russian army. The whole factory was brought by train to the USSR. I was fascinated after watching Pentax semi-electronic or semi-automatic don't remember in a Camera store in Brighton in the UK in 1979. I was working in the summer in Brighton and did not have much money. half my 2 months' salary from the restaurant bought that Camera. Later I gave it to my younger brothers in Bangladesh. He used many years. in the 80s I bought 2 Zenith Cameras, made in the USSR and the lens was very good the East German Contex and Russian Zeniths sold in London electronic shops for less than 100$. I have many photos taken by Zenith Camera and I developed myself by buying an enlarger at a hostel. The development chemicals and papers were very cheap(20 Kopek each). Developer and fixer chemicals and dried on window glass by sticking on them. when it dried, fell off the window glasses. It was fascinating.th-cam.com/video/6TUZSSb8_VQ/w-d-xo.html
The Soviet Chaika half-frame, specifically the original model, is one of my favourite compact camera designs. The writing and logotype both have such a great style, and the simplicity of the controls make for a really nicely minimal design.
After the Hasselblad camera, my favorite camera is the Linhof Kardan B 4x5 view camera, I had one and used it for years, it never ceased to impress with the design and quality.
I still today use my beloved Werra 1 camera (my father's camera, on which I learned how to take pictures in the early '70...), and not only is it a beautiful little camera but also comes with one of the best 50 mm fixed lenses ever made. Unsurpassed for B/W pictures, overall almost on par with the classic Takumar 50 1.4...
i like my Canon 5D ergonomically as well as for handling and operation with vintage lenses. i never considered it to be a 'beautiful' camera but very practical and simple, fun to use.
I spent 10yrs in the photographic business most of them in sales so I had access to all the "current" cameras of the film era (talk about a kid in a candy store). Never warmed up to the Leicas ... RF or SLR. My all time favourite film camera for both looks and use is the Contax G2 - a gorgeous design, a joy to hold and those Zeiss lenses ... and oh those Zeiss lenses😗. I also owned a Rollei 3.5F for 17yrs as my only camera so I'm 100% with you on the Rollei TLRs. A lovely camera to look at and use and the 75mm Planar handled light like no other lens I've see before or since ... absolutely gorgeous with a colour depth that has to be seen to appreciate.😍 I bought a Maxxum 7000 in 85 when they hit the market and instantly hated it ... horrible camera to use; see those rectangular buttons on the left top; miserable to use with bare hands and totally impossible with gloves of any kind ... TERRIBLE design. Their later designs were much better but I always had a love hate relationship with Minolta - owned two and never liked either of them. I also owned Pentax gear (so-so) and an OM1 system (great little camera but never used it much). I've also owned a Speed Graphic, a Linhof 23 kit with matched lenses (Hated it!!! Awkward and clunky to use, especially in cold weather) and a Nikon SP (difficult to find lenses for even in the 60s. Wish I'd kept it, they're worth a fortune now). My longest running camera affair was 1988-2015 with Canon. In 2015 I went completely Fuji and have no plans to change anytime soon - or ever.
Fascinating some of the more obscure models in your video, it was very enjoyable to watch. My own personal beauty is the Pentax MX, a simple clean design that I have owned and used for 39 years.
The Pentax MX is a beautifully made camera that has lived in the shadow of competing models such as the Olympus OM1 and Nikon FM. I bought an MX around 10 years ago, not to take pictures, but as a reminder of the SLR I should have bought back in the 80s.
Can't go wrong with the Yashica Electro 35. The later models weren't hugely different from a design standpoint, so any of those is worth considering. Easy to use too. Same can be said of the Canon AE-1. It's the quintessential 70s camera, I think. A bit plastic-y, but still nice to look at.
Agree, I personally love the Nikon D4s model, over any other camera for pure beauty! As a lifelong Nikon user and NPS member, my second choice would be the F6. Currently I’m shooting Nikon D6 and D500. Great combo, and the D6 is the best autofocus DSLR ever made! As far as beautiful though, my ultimate favorite piece of kit is the Nikon 13mm f/5.6 lens. Ken Rockwell brought one into the camera store I used to work at, it was impressive. Although for $25,000-$30,000 I’d rather have something else. However it’s such a beautiful lens inside and out. I can’t remember but I think we tried out with a D800E or something. It held up to todays standards. It’s extremely sharp and just incredible overall. As far as beautiful cameras, I’d have to pick the new Leica Q2 Reporter. I know it’s new, not a classic and it’s certainly not film. But if I had a spare $5k you could bet I’m buying one!
I had an Electro 35 back in the 70s as my first camera. A GSN model to boot. Never liked it for its lack of manual exposure controls and ended up giving it away. Imagine my surprise years later when I found that it had become a collectors model among Yashica enthusiasts.
What an enjoyable video! As you said "beauty" is very subjective but I like your way of thinking. My Asahi Pentax (AP) and K agree 100% with you. I also find the original Asahiflex very attractive. A contender for my all time favorite is the Pentax SV, the last meterless model. A series of consumer cameras I love is the Kodak Pony series from the 50's, especially the Pony 135 Model C. Bakelite and Arthur Crapsey brought style to many consumer cameras in the mid 20th century. I also love the look of 620 folders from Kodak. Currently shooting with a Tourist II and a Junior six-20 Series II. Love the simplicity of the Brownie box cameras, which I restore and use. An early digital camera I loved was the Fuji S3000 from around 2003 as it looked like a miniature SLR. The Pentax Auto 110 is the cutest miniature. Great topic! Thank you!
The Pentax K1000 always brings me back. The tooth pick light meter. Older brother had, had one (1975-2014) and found one in a swap shop had to take it. Been my most used and most elegant for several Christmas portraits. Also have a Canon rebel eos xs from a thrift shop both of which are in my bag including the so ugly it’s cute Holga 120z
I know this video is already old, but I think the most beautiful SLR I've seen is the Miranda Sensorflex. I just love the symbol on it and the shine of the metal metal it's made of. I'd like to buy one eventually, I can afford one, but I wouldn't spend 80 dollars for a camera, a beautiful camera, that will just be sitting in my desk.
Thank you SO much for all the effort you put into this production. I especially loved the fact that I have owned and used many of these cameras for fun and commercial work since 1962! These days it’s a number of Fuji models!
I had to find out what the "periscope" (as you described it) on the Vitessa was for. it was a push button(? [hardly a button]) film advance and shutter cocking implement.
Small correction : The Pentax ME-F (1981) and Nikon F3-AF (1983) were the 2 first 35mm AF SLR. To be fair, the Minolta 7000 was the first SLR AF "system" with 12 AF lenses available from 24mm to 300mm.
Yes, apologies, I should have made that clear. I posted a video last year on the history of cameras, and made it clear there - and posted a photo of the PentaxME-F and it's auto-focusing lens.
One of the smartest camera on the market today for it's design, ergonomics and construction quality is the Hasselblad X1D, and the camera with today's most original retro design the Hasselblad 907X, both in the digital mirrorless with interchangeable lenses category
Without asking or knowing anything about it, a brpken cardboard box was mailed to me at work. A second uncle I met only once back east died, and I got his 1935 Contax in it's leather case, a 4x5 Speed graphic in it's case with it's bottom drawer full of flashblubs, and, of all things, a small reel of 35mm newsreel movie film of Alfred Hitchcock and his cast dedicating a book to a Boston library. My uncle used to be one of the vice presidents of promotion for Paramount. By the way, one of the early Bronicas came in blue, and was extremely deco. Maybe the N. Chrome and blue....Also the Kodak Cine II all loaded up with three lenses is a beautiful thing. And just sits there defying you to pick it up without weight training....
I still think the Nikon F3 HP is one of the best examples of form following function, like a fine mechanical watch still managing to be slim and sleek. To me it's what a camera SHOULD look like, and I have found myself comparing every other camera to it since I first saw the F3 many years ago when it was still being made. It was improbably massive to me back then, and so compact now compared to any comparable level Canon or Nikon DSLR.
I have one of these F3s - a beautifully designed camera, in my opinion. I bought it in about 1981 and still have it. I already had an F2s, which was bigger and clumsier, and a more compact camera was definitely an attraction.
Great video but the Olympus Pen-F film camera shown is not a fixed lens model but instead it is a half frame SLR interchangeable lens camera. Many Pen models were fixed lens but not this one.
Many thanks. I'm aware of this mistake but I'm not allowed to change this video. So I'm going to re-post a revised version with corrections and some other cameras suggested here in due course.
I’m a complete novice to precision film cameras, but of late I’ve become quite attracted to what I’ve learned is the very last version of the 35mm Kodak AG Germany Retina/Retinette series: the Kodak AG Germany Retinette 1B 045. 254,00 of that particular version were produced. Inexpensive, easy to find, and quite exceptionally admired for their high precision quality, exceptional beauty, sophisticated practicality, compactness, and versatility. On a separate tack, one thing I’ve known for many decades is the correct way the Japanese name Nikon is pronounced is not “nickon” as you kept mispronouncing it - it is n👁️kon - the way the word eye is pronounced. Here is the link to a TH-cam video that perfectly depicts equally both the beauty of the 1B 045 as well as its superb quality, and practically for the novice wishing to correctly learn the hands on sophisticated basics of analog film photography camera operation: th-cam.com/video/wuH6ckQOx9A/w-d-xo.html
I just made a thrift-shop buy: Asahi Pentax Spotmatic S -- which was the first model SLR I used back in the mid to late 60s. It's in the shop for a CLA + light meter repair. All of this will cost more that the camera is worth, but I don't care. Love the camera. Thanks for this and your other videos which are works of art themselves!
My favorite is the Voigtlander Vitessa. I received one as a Christmas gift in 1962 and used it for years. I was also very fond of the Canon Elf in APS format. Again, I received one as a gift and used it quite a lot before digital killed the APS system.
13:49 Your thumbnail featuring the Werra instantly caught my eye, for this is the camera that I inherited from my father long time ago. Last year I started selling stuff I do not need anymore, just to simplify my life. But this camera will *never* go, because it's connected to the memory of my parents through hundreds of pictures from my early childhood, which my father took with this very camera. Wonderful to find it in your list - thanks a lot! What a great overview, bringing my attention to so many beautifully designed and well-engineered products of their time.
I think the 1998 Nikon Coolpix 900 deserves mention. A revolutionary rotating split body design allows multiple shooting angels. And it's just damn cool looking!
So many cameras I never knew existed. But for me the #1 of all cameras is the SX-70, follow by the Rollie 35. But of course, when it comes to cameras, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Love the range of cameras you had on show, my favourite would be the Nikon F2 Photomic it is almost brutulistic in design with no sleek line just built for the job of going anywhere in the world and not missing a shot. Cameras I have owned and loved Rollieflex 3.5 T, Minolta Autoflex CDS, Rollie M SLR and last but certainly not least Soligor SM SLR with waist level finder which is bullet proof, one I really did think you missed was the Pentax 110 camera with interchangable lenses, a woman I knew used to get beautiful results from hers, she used it as she was born with only one arm and found it hard to use most SLR's
I agree with your ultimate SLR as the Asahi Pentax K. One sits on my desk because I love to look at it and feel the beautifully smooth operation. The S2 and S3 are very similar but a lot cheaper to buy.
Learned film in 1960s. My favorites for use that I own: Large format: Speed Graphic Med Format: Pentax 645 and Zeiss Super Ikonta C folder, Rollie f3.5 TLR with Lumier 100 or PXP. RF: Nikon SP, Canon 7s, Voigtlander Bessa R3 Olive and R4M Black 35 SLR: Nikon FE, Nikon 8008s, Olympus Pen F (1/2 frame) Pocket: Rollie 35 SE, Olympus XA Spy: Minolta 16II (I collected up all the 16mm models and have a Minolta 16mm enlarger and projector as well. I cut and load my own film.) Digi: Epson RD 1 (takes any Leica thread OR M-mount lens with FEW exception made in the past 90 years)
I feel like the Rollei SL 66 is truely worth menitioning. Maybe not so because of the beautiful design, but for it's outstanding functionality and the unique workmanship. I have used it and loved it.
Was suprised, to see my Rolleiflex Automat 1937 here. Its a beauty. But I expected a newer version, because everyone wants the new ones. Besides me. I love my old 37. Mainly because I repaired her by my own.
A very entertaining video. I've got nine of the cameras you listed! I know you weren't covering movie cameras, but the Swiss made Bolex D8 is also a design and engineering beauty. It was the boss of 8mm movie cameras with its three-lens turret.
As a photographer, and for a short while- camera repair tech, great selection! I have several of your selections, and have worked on some of them, too. Wish I had more. Kinda sad that film has become so rare, but I do like my Pentax D100 and the hundred of photos it can take and store (that and the huge selection of K lenses available).. Thanks for the look back.
Magnifique sélection...je connaissais peu les appareils pré-60's, et grâce à toi j'en découvert des fabuleux. Merci. J'ai utilisé beaucoup de reflex dans ma vie, surtout Canon et Nikon, mais celui qui a toujours fait chavirer mon cœur, et encore maintenant c'est le Nikon FM black. Jamais je ne me lasserai de le contempler....
I do love the Ferrania Zeta Duplex, the camera that smiles and the Olympus XA series. Also the Durst Automatica from the early 1960ies is a beautiful camera.
I have seven vintage film SLR cameras. For my tastes, the most aesthetically beautiful ones with the best lines from these, in order, are as follows: My Nikon F (Ftn photomic prism head, silver on black) My Canon AE-1 (silver on black) My Minolta SRT-303 (all silver) The SRT-303 was the European marketed version of the SRT-102. Same exact 1973 model year camera. Also, my Canon FTb QL (1973) Most all my vintage film SLRs have either been refurbished or are in like new, barely used condition.
Somewhat of an unpopular opinion, but the Sony Alpha Full Frame cameras have such a timeless design. The silhouette is pure professionalism and digital power. Therefore, I find them to be the single most attractive modern camera, barring Leicas.
Thanks a lot for this superb and instructive video. When considering an update you may think of including one r more Alpa cameras, and the Olympus XA (you mentioned it but didn’t show it) and the Nikonos III, and the Contax G2 (both silver and black) and the Leicaflex and the last film Leica R, and the X-Pan, and the Fuji 617, …
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Olympus Pen F is technically considered an SLR because there is a mirror that flips sideways (instead of up and down in a normal SLR) and the lens can be interchanged! I have one, and it is my favorite halfframe film camera
The half-frame design translated well into the E300 4:3 digital. Great camera to use and 8mp is plenty for most work. Mirrorless killed the E-Volt line of lenses, now requiring the mirror box adapter.
@@leonarddaneman810I have the G.Zuiko 40mm f/1.4, the one shown in the video on the Pen F, with an adapter for my OM-D EM-5 Mk II micro 4/3 and it's great. Pentagonal bokeh!
Never seen it before. Very beautiful camera
The Pen F is easily one of the most gorgeous designs ever. I have a not-so-functional but mint 1963 example that I’m more than happy to just leave on the sheet as a decoration!
Hi Simon. I like your videos! I am a camera collector with about 400 cameras, you have made a very good choice! A little correction for Rollei (never Rollie!) and for Voigtländer. Almost nobody knows, that the letter i is an old German sign for spelling the o longer: we spell "Voogtländer".
When you talk about beautiful cameras, I didn't expect a history class on cameras. And I am fully loving it!
The Werra 1 is definitely the camera I am going to buy. I was born beside that river “the Werra” , today it’s very beautiful. It took a couple of years to get clean. When I was young you could not swim in the Werra. Now you can. Greets from hessian Peter
Fujifilm X100V! That thing is absolutely beautiful!
I have really enjoyed this video of classic cameras. My dad owned a number of the Kodak folding cameras from the 1930s and took many photographs of New York. When I was assigned to the US Air Force Photo School in January 1962 the very first camera we were introduced to were 8x10 folding field cameras. We were surprised to find that most of these were made between 1917 and 1918. They still made some very nice photos and taught us how to be careful when loading sheet film into the wooden holders. We then moved on to the standard USAF camera, the Graflex Speed Graphic. We used all the film types of the era, Kodak XX, Plus-X, Pan-X, and Tri-X in sheet and film packs. I especially liked the Polaroid film packs which gave us an instant photo and also a 4x5 sheet film. These films were some of the best in high ASA speeds and smooth tight grain. My first SLR was the Pentax SV and I used it for many years before buying a used Leica M-2. I went back to Pentax in the digital age with the K10D, K-3, and K-1. Thanks for the memories!
A video so good I have to watch it again. I own the OM-1 and Vito II and agree the ate bot functional and beautiful. I'll add my Yashica 35, the original non electro, to my beautiful camera list. Sure a Leica copy but really well done with its own flare.
13:36 The Olympus Pen F is a half-frame SLR camera with many interchangeable lenses and accessories...
I have just acquired a Konica 11A. This is at the very top of my list of favourite cameras because it looks fantastic and the build quality is superb. I cannot recommend this beauty enough.
I have an old Hasse 500c and think/feel its the most beautiful camera I've ever seen. I love the older Canon FD cameras too, more than you I see.
Hower, I do respect some of your picks, especially, the really old ones.
Silver Nikon F2 with Photomic head is IMHO the most lovely looking SLR ever.
I don't find rangefinders like Leica's to be particularly pretty, but holding them is a joy because you get to feel the craftsmanship of their build.
After testing Asahi, Nikon and Canon I went for: Minolta 303b (old school look - big and heavy) + Minolta X7 (SLR of choice for everything) + Minolta TC-1 (super compact titanium) + Minolta CLE (small powerful leica)
SO SORRY I mis-spelled and mis-pronounced Rollei. Unfortunately, I can't correct the video 😞
Plus many thanks to everyone who has commented and made excellent suggestions, and important corrections (e.g. on the Olympus Pen F).
I've consolidated other beautiful cameras suggested by viewers below, in this new video: studio.th-cam.com/users/videoPfEQrBadL6A/edit
I'll be posting a "second/revised edition", probably within the next two weeks. 🤞 If you have strong views you don't feel like sharing below, please contact me at: simons.utak1@gmail.com
Here are the time links to specific camera types:
00:54 Box cameras
04:51 Folding bellows cameras
07:23 Twin lens reflex cameras
09:05 Compact cameras (e.g. point & shoot, fixed lens, film and digital)
17:18 Interchangeable lens cameras (e.g. rangefinder, SLR, MILC)
Panasonic Lumix GM1 in all black!
I absolutely adore your videos. Simple. Well made. Not over-producded. AND without some generic 'royalty free' soundtrack overdub.
Perfectly said!
Two German cameras that definitely belong here are the beautiful golden "Penti II" and the wonderful shiny "Zeiss Ikon Contessamat".
And as a German I'm sorry I have to say that the "i" in "Voigtländer" is a silent/non spoken letter and the brand "Rollei" is "Rollei" not "Rollie" - the proof is on every Rollei camera.
Thanks for the great video, the wonderful selection of stunning cameras all the research and inspiration!
I love German rangefinders from the 1950s. It was a Zeiss Ikon Contina that kicked off my camera collection. Not an expensive camera, but it has exquisite mechancial detail. And thanks for reminding us of the correct pronunciation of "Voigtländer". I've just realised that I've butchered the word over the last 40 years!
So many others as well. The Pentax Auto 110, and the ME/MX were very pretty designs, as was the Contax 159. Nikon's EM and Canon's EOS 5 were attractive as well. For digital, I think Panasonic's Lumix GM1 in silver is a design classic, and both Leica's SL, and Canon's R3 will age well. Great video. Brings back some memories.
There are 2 cameras that will always be my favourites - the Olympus OM1 and the Rollei 6006, both of which I have owned (I still have the 6006, though no longer used) and, in their day, used extensively
yes and please pronounce "Rollei" as "roll eye" - but with short "o", like in "toll" or "poll" or "doll" - says a german lover of Fujifilm X-E2s!
@@thepirateshootsRol-lay
Absolutely first rate presentation! Many a TH-camr would benefit from this video's structure and narration qualities. We'll done!
Mamiya C220 TLR interchangeable system has superlative optics and the minimalist ethos is pure joy. The 50mm is stunning.
Beautiful Video. Education and entertaining.
I love the look and function of my Olympus XA cameras. Also, the svelte, silver Stylus.
I love the look of Agfa Optima Sensor series, very iconic design.
Yes. I've kept one of those, the Optima 5000 and its flash, as an ornament. Also a Canon Ixus s400 :-)
I always loved the look of the Contax 159mm camera.
Love the design of my Zenza Bronica S2 , and Asahi Pentax Spotmatic SPII
When I was small my older brother had a Pentax Spotmatic and that set the standard in my mind for a classic SLR. So good looking
I did use the S2A, I was a plank to sell.
Personally I think the Fed 2 and Fed 3 are absolutely gorgeous
For ultimate simplicity in a very functional camera I would choose the Olympus Trip 35.
I have loved cameras all my life. I still have my grandfather's Kodak bellows camera from 1907, and I loved this video's review of classic cameras. I am familiar with many of them!
For a modern camera design , I'd like to nominate the KanDao Qoocam EGO, a 3D stereo still and video camera, which is helping to bring back 3D to a new generation of people using VR headsets and lenticular, glasses-free tablets like the Lume Pad 2.
I bought the Qoocam EGO recently, and I am still evaluating it. The design and the concept are absolutely brilliant. The camera itself is not that intuitive, however, but young purchasers will catch on quickly and love it.
I think the best 3D digital camera of the last decade is the Fuji FinePix 3D W3, introduced around 2011 and which I also purchased recently. The design of this camera is absolutely wonderful.
I have worked with stereo photography for much of my life (I inherited my dad's Stereo Realist from the late 1940s) and there's an almost continuous archive of stereo 3d in my family collection.
I am now ready for stereo video. I live in Hawaii, I have four different stereo rigs (all used except the Qoocam) and I will be uploading stereo video to my TH-cam channel soon. I realize this is a niche and there won't be many viewers yet. But it's Hawaii.
I also deplore "exploitative" photos and videos which emphasize dramatic visual effects instead of the normal 3D we all see all the time. 3D should NOT be a "gimmick".
It also should not hurt peoples' eyes when watching it. That comes from poor depth editing.
Thank you so much for this. I've noted your TH-cam Channel and look forward to seeing your stereo videos.
What a great list of amazing cameras. The Spotmatic SP is my most beautiful camera of all time. The clean lines, the simplicity, the weight and the handling are all just perfect to me. I love replacing the leatherettes to give them even more character.
I agree. I've got a black Pentax SL, which is the spotmatic without a light meter, so it doesn't have that tacked on plastic stop-down lever, and it's by far the prettiest camera I've owned. Second up would probably be the Zeiss Ikon Nettar 517/16. The ugliest.. probably the Zenit E.
That was a fun watch, thanks!
I bought Minolta 7000 in 1986 in London with two zoom lenses and a flash and it cost almost 9000 pounds. That was stolen in St. Peterburg in 1988 from a student hostel storage, later coming to Canada bought a 9000 version in the mid-90s or a little later 2nd hand and later resold it to a realtor. As I remember Minolta 7000 was the first autofocus camera. I bought 3 more cameras from 1974 to the 80s. Russian-made Kiev and Zorki cameras. They are produced in factories that were dismantled during WWII in Germany and looted by the russian army. The whole factory was brought by train to the USSR. I was fascinated after watching Pentax semi-electronic or semi-automatic don't remember in a Camera store in Brighton in the UK in 1979. I was working in the summer in Brighton and did not have much money. half my 2 months' salary from the restaurant bought that Camera. Later I gave it to my younger brothers in Bangladesh. He used many years. in the 80s I bought 2 Zenith Cameras, made in the USSR and the lens was very good the East German Contex and Russian Zeniths sold in London electronic shops for less than 100$. I have many photos taken by Zenith Camera and I developed myself by buying an enlarger at a hostel. The development chemicals and papers were very cheap(20 Kopek each). Developer and fixer chemicals and dried on window glass by sticking on them. when it dried, fell off the window glasses. It was fascinating.th-cam.com/video/6TUZSSb8_VQ/w-d-xo.html
I'm going to add a camera I just got for Xmas, a 1949 Konica Type Cs Rangefinder (later referred to as a Konica 1). Can't wait to try it out.
Rollei had a wonderful Art Deco TLR ..... love the look !!!!!
The Soviet Chaika half-frame, specifically the original model, is one of my favourite compact camera designs. The writing and logotype both have such a great style, and the simplicity of the controls make for a really nicely minimal design.
After the Hasselblad camera, my favorite camera is the Linhof Kardan B 4x5 view camera, I had one and used it for years, it never ceased to impress with the design and quality.
I still today use my beloved Werra 1 camera (my father's camera, on which I learned how to take pictures in the early '70...), and not only is it a beautiful little camera but also comes with one of the best 50 mm fixed lenses ever made. Unsurpassed for B/W pictures, overall almost on par with the classic Takumar 50 1.4...
My first serious camera was my Werra 1C, bought new in 1963. I had work taken with it published in the UK.
My retro Olympus Pen EE from the 1960s is quite pleasing to the eye.
i like my Canon 5D ergonomically as well as for handling and operation with vintage lenses. i never considered it to be a 'beautiful' camera but very practical and simple, fun to use.
I spent 10yrs in the photographic business most of them in sales so I had access to all the "current" cameras of the film era (talk about a kid in a candy store).
Never warmed up to the Leicas ... RF or SLR. My all time favourite film camera for both looks and use is the Contax G2 - a gorgeous design, a joy to hold and those Zeiss lenses ... and oh those Zeiss lenses😗.
I also owned a Rollei 3.5F for 17yrs as my only camera so I'm 100% with you on the Rollei TLRs. A lovely camera to look at and use and the 75mm Planar handled light like no other lens I've see before or since ... absolutely gorgeous with a colour depth that has to be seen to appreciate.😍
I bought a Maxxum 7000 in 85 when they hit the market and instantly hated it ... horrible camera to use; see those rectangular buttons on the left top; miserable to use with bare hands and totally impossible with gloves of any kind ... TERRIBLE design. Their later designs were much better but I always had a love hate relationship with Minolta - owned two and never liked either of them.
I also owned Pentax gear (so-so) and an OM1 system (great little camera but never used it much). I've also owned a Speed Graphic, a Linhof 23 kit with matched lenses (Hated it!!! Awkward and clunky to use, especially in cold weather) and a Nikon SP (difficult to find lenses for even in the 60s. Wish I'd kept it, they're worth a fortune now).
My longest running camera affair was 1988-2015 with Canon. In 2015 I went completely Fuji and have no plans to change anytime soon - or ever.
Thank you for the trip down memory lane.
Pentax Spotmatic and Olympus Trip 35 have always been my favourites.
I have a Rolleiflex Automat and I love the camera. Beautiful and a joy to use.
Simon, you are an icon also....I coul listen to you for hours!!!
Fascinating some of the more obscure models in your video, it was very enjoyable to watch. My own personal beauty is the Pentax MX, a simple clean design that I have owned and used for 39 years.
The Pentax MX is a beautifully made camera that has lived in the shadow of competing models such as the Olympus OM1 and Nikon FM. I bought an MX around 10 years ago, not to take pictures, but as a reminder of the SLR I should have bought back in the 80s.
The Olympus Pen 3rd gen is very nice, minimal, and classic lines.
I loved the Olympus Stylus. We had one and it was a pleasure to slide open the lens cover. It also took great photos.
Can't go wrong with the Yashica Electro 35. The later models weren't hugely different from a design standpoint, so any of those is worth considering. Easy to use too.
Same can be said of the Canon AE-1. It's the quintessential 70s camera, I think. A bit plastic-y, but still nice to look at.
Agree, I personally love the Nikon D4s model, over any other camera for pure beauty! As a lifelong Nikon user and NPS member, my second choice would be the F6. Currently I’m shooting Nikon D6 and D500. Great combo, and the D6 is the best autofocus DSLR ever made! As far as beautiful though, my ultimate favorite piece of kit is the Nikon 13mm f/5.6 lens. Ken Rockwell brought one into the camera store I used to work at, it was impressive. Although for $25,000-$30,000 I’d rather have something else. However it’s such a beautiful lens inside and out. I can’t remember but I think we tried out with a D800E or something. It held up to todays standards. It’s extremely sharp and just incredible overall. As far as beautiful cameras, I’d have to pick the new Leica Q2 Reporter. I know it’s new, not a classic and it’s certainly not film. But if I had a spare $5k you could bet I’m buying one!
I have, and use, an Electro 35 as well as quite a few DSLR and Mirrorless cameras. The Yashica is great.
I had an Electro 35 back in the 70s as my first camera. A GSN model to boot. Never liked it for its lack of manual exposure controls and ended up giving it away. Imagine my surprise years later when I found that it had become a collectors model among Yashica enthusiasts.
I enjoyed this a lot, a real trip down memory lane... My first camera was a Kodak Instamatic 155X, bought in 1974. I now own and use a Fujifilm X-H1.
What an enjoyable video! As you said "beauty" is very subjective but I like your way of thinking. My Asahi Pentax (AP) and K agree 100% with you. I also find the original Asahiflex very attractive. A contender for my all time favorite is the Pentax SV, the last meterless model. A series of consumer cameras I love is the Kodak Pony series from the 50's, especially the Pony 135 Model C. Bakelite and Arthur Crapsey brought style to many consumer cameras in the mid 20th century. I also love the look of 620 folders from Kodak. Currently shooting with a Tourist II and a Junior six-20 Series II. Love the simplicity of the Brownie box cameras, which I restore and use. An early digital camera I loved was the Fuji S3000 from around 2003 as it looked like a miniature SLR. The Pentax Auto 110 is the cutest miniature. Great topic! Thank you!
the sigma quattro series are ofen overlooked upon but their designs are quirky and eyecatching
also the pixxii
I just discovered some cameras I had no idea even had existed. thank you!
The Pentax K1000 always brings me back. The tooth pick light meter. Older brother had, had one (1975-2014) and found one in a swap shop had to take it. Been my most used and most elegant for several Christmas portraits. Also have a Canon rebel eos xs from a thrift shop both of which are in my bag including the so ugly it’s cute Holga 120z
It's a beast but the Pentax 6x7 for me, the sound of the shutter is so gorgeous as well.
I know this video is already old, but I think the most beautiful SLR I've seen is the Miranda Sensorflex. I just love the symbol on it and the shine of the metal metal it's made of. I'd like to buy one eventually, I can afford one, but I wouldn't spend 80 dollars for a camera, a beautiful camera, that will just be sitting in my desk.
Wonderful history of cameras. Thanks
I find the Pentax Q very appealing and recently bought one
Thank you SO much for all the effort you put into this production. I especially loved the fact that I have owned and used many of these cameras for fun and commercial work since 1962! These days it’s a number of Fuji models!
A great Video, ended up picking up a Zeiss Werra after this video. I would definitely say the agrus c3 would have a place on this list for me!
I had to find out what the "periscope" (as you described it) on the Vitessa was for.
it was a push button(? [hardly a button]) film advance and shutter cocking implement.
Alpa 11 (1971) from Switzerland
second this
Was close to get a duo of this one ... but as a fully post modern child I run into money problems. The only almost camera purchase I really regret...
Small correction :
The Pentax ME-F (1981) and Nikon F3-AF (1983) were the 2 first 35mm AF SLR.
To be fair, the Minolta 7000 was the first SLR AF "system" with 12 AF lenses available from 24mm to 300mm.
Yes, apologies, I should have made that clear. I posted a video last year on the history of cameras, and made it clear there - and posted a photo of the PentaxME-F and it's auto-focusing lens.
My special favorites: the Contax G2 and Konica Hexar AF - the most beautiful camera of all time!
One of the smartest camera on the market today for it's design, ergonomics and construction quality is the Hasselblad X1D, and the camera with today's most original retro design the Hasselblad 907X, both in the digital mirrorless with interchangeable lenses category
A wonderful overview, so many interesting cameras in there!
Without asking or knowing anything about it, a brpken cardboard box was mailed to me at work. A second uncle I met only once back east died, and I got his 1935 Contax in it's leather case, a 4x5 Speed graphic in it's case with it's bottom drawer full of flashblubs, and, of all things, a small reel of 35mm newsreel movie film of Alfred Hitchcock and his cast dedicating a book to a Boston library. My uncle used to be one of the vice presidents of promotion for Paramount. By the way, one of the early Bronicas came in blue, and was extremely deco. Maybe the N. Chrome and blue....Also the Kodak Cine II all loaded up with three lenses is a beautiful thing. And just sits there defying you to pick it up without weight training....
I still think the Nikon F3 HP is one of the best examples of form following function, like a fine mechanical watch still managing to be slim and sleek. To me it's what a camera SHOULD look like, and I have found myself comparing every other camera to it since I first saw the F3 many years ago when it was still being made. It was improbably massive to me back then, and so compact now compared to any comparable level Canon or Nikon DSLR.
I have one of these F3s - a beautifully designed camera, in my opinion. I bought it in about 1981 and still have it. I already had an F2s, which was bigger and clumsier, and a more compact camera was definitely an attraction.
Tank you so much! I have owned and used many cameras that you have show, starting with my first Baby Browny. Thank you, a real kick.
TLRs are just gorgeous!
Great video but the Olympus Pen-F film camera shown is not a fixed lens model but instead it is a half frame SLR interchangeable lens camera. Many Pen models were fixed lens but not this one.
Many thanks. I'm aware of this mistake but I'm not allowed to change this video. So I'm going to re-post a revised version with corrections and some other cameras suggested here in due course.
My xpro 3 looks amazing everytime I get it out my bag! I love it
I’m a complete novice to precision film cameras, but of late I’ve become quite attracted to what I’ve learned is the very last version of the 35mm Kodak AG Germany Retina/Retinette series: the Kodak AG Germany Retinette 1B 045. 254,00 of that particular version were produced. Inexpensive, easy to find, and quite exceptionally admired for their high precision quality, exceptional beauty, sophisticated practicality, compactness, and versatility. On a separate tack, one thing I’ve known for many decades is the correct way the Japanese name Nikon is pronounced is not “nickon” as you kept mispronouncing it - it is n👁️kon - the way the word eye is pronounced. Here is the link to a TH-cam video that perfectly depicts equally both the beauty of the 1B 045 as well as its superb quality, and practically for the novice wishing to correctly learn the hands on sophisticated basics of analog film photography camera operation:
th-cam.com/video/wuH6ckQOx9A/w-d-xo.html
I just made a thrift-shop buy: Asahi Pentax Spotmatic S -- which was the first model SLR I used back in the mid to late 60s. It's in the shop for a CLA + light meter repair. All of this will cost more that the camera is worth, but I don't care. Love the camera. Thanks for this and your other videos which are works of art themselves!
My favorite is the Voigtlander Vitessa. I received one as a Christmas gift in 1962 and used it for years. I was also very fond of the Canon Elf in APS format. Again, I received one as a gift and used it quite a lot before digital killed the APS system.
You got my favourites exactly.
13:49 Your thumbnail featuring the Werra instantly caught my eye, for this is the camera that I inherited from my father long time ago. Last year I started selling stuff I do not need anymore, just to simplify my life. But this camera will *never* go, because it's connected to the memory of my parents through hundreds of pictures from my early childhood, which my father took with this very camera. Wonderful to find it in your list - thanks a lot!
What a great overview, bringing my attention to so many beautifully designed and well-engineered products of their time.
Thanks for the time line and history. Beautiful cameras are plentiful.
I think the 1998 Nikon Coolpix 900 deserves mention. A revolutionary rotating split body design allows multiple shooting angels. And it's just damn cool looking!
Thanks again Simon
So many cameras I never knew existed.
But for me the #1 of all cameras is the SX-70, follow by the Rollie 35. But of course, when it comes to cameras, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Love the range of cameras you had on show, my favourite would be the Nikon F2 Photomic it is almost brutulistic in design with no sleek line just built for the job of going anywhere in the world and not missing a shot. Cameras I have owned and loved Rollieflex 3.5 T, Minolta Autoflex CDS, Rollie M SLR and last but certainly not least Soligor SM SLR with waist level finder which is bullet proof, one I really did think you missed was the Pentax 110 camera with interchangable lenses, a woman I knew used to get beautiful results from hers, she used it as she was born with only one arm and found it hard to use most SLR's
I agree with your ultimate SLR as the Asahi Pentax K. One sits on my desk because I love to look at it and feel the beautifully smooth operation. The S2 and S3 are very similar but a lot cheaper to buy.
Learned film in 1960s. My favorites for use that I own:
Large format: Speed Graphic
Med Format: Pentax 645 and Zeiss Super Ikonta C folder, Rollie f3.5 TLR with Lumier 100 or PXP.
RF: Nikon SP, Canon 7s, Voigtlander Bessa R3 Olive and R4M Black
35 SLR: Nikon FE, Nikon 8008s, Olympus Pen F (1/2 frame)
Pocket: Rollie 35 SE, Olympus XA
Spy: Minolta 16II (I collected up all the 16mm models and have a Minolta 16mm enlarger and projector as well. I cut and load my own film.)
Digi: Epson RD 1 (takes any Leica thread OR M-mount lens with FEW exception made in the past 90 years)
I feel like the Rollei SL 66 is truely worth menitioning. Maybe not so because of the beautiful design, but for it's outstanding functionality and the unique workmanship. I have used it and loved it.
My personal favs...
Pixii, Epson RD-1, Leica M6, Fuji X100, Canon AE-1, Fujifilm Tiara 1000ix, Edixa Reflex.
Bonus: my beloved 35mm f1.4 Voigtlander (bokehmonster) lens.
I would add 3 cameras to this list:
-Nikon 35Ti
-Nikon Coolpix A
-Fujifilm X100 series
Was suprised, to see my Rolleiflex Automat 1937 here. Its a beauty. But I expected a newer version, because everyone wants the new ones. Besides me. I love my old 37. Mainly because I repaired her by my own.
The Epsom RD1 is a favourite of mine.
Outstanding design. It's demise was a tragic.
A very entertaining video. I've got nine of the cameras you listed! I know you weren't covering movie cameras, but the Swiss made Bolex D8 is also a design and engineering beauty. It was the boss of 8mm movie cameras with its three-lens turret.
As a photographer, and for a short while- camera repair tech, great selection! I have several of your selections, and have worked on some of them, too. Wish I had more. Kinda sad that film has become so rare, but I do like my Pentax D100 and the hundred of photos it can take and store (that and the huge selection of K lenses available).. Thanks for the look back.
I remeber my first time shooting with the Arri SR1 16mm camera. That was (and is) a piece of beauty.
The TDC Stereo Vivid is a gorgeous 3D camera that reminds me of a 1950s Plymouth automobile.
Great review!! The new hasselblad is gorgeous!!
Glad to see our tastes are similar I have a good few of those and now know a few to look for.
Beautiful, vulgar, or totally over the top. Yes...yes indeed. Excellent video.
Magnifique sélection...je connaissais peu les appareils pré-60's, et grâce à toi j'en découvert des fabuleux. Merci. J'ai utilisé beaucoup de reflex dans ma vie, surtout Canon et Nikon, mais celui qui a toujours fait chavirer mon cœur, et encore maintenant c'est le Nikon FM black. Jamais je ne me lasserai de le contempler....
I do love the Ferrania Zeta Duplex, the camera that smiles and the Olympus XA series. Also the Durst Automatica from the early 1960ies is a beautiful camera.
just outstanding! liked and subscribed.
I have seven vintage film SLR cameras. For my tastes, the most aesthetically beautiful ones with the best lines from these, in order, are as follows:
My Nikon F (Ftn photomic prism head, silver on black)
My Canon AE-1 (silver on black)
My Minolta SRT-303 (all silver) The SRT-303 was the European marketed version of the SRT-102. Same exact 1973 model year camera.
Also, my Canon FTb QL (1973)
Most all my vintage film SLRs have either been refurbished or are in like new, barely used condition.
Somewhat of an unpopular opinion, but the Sony Alpha Full Frame cameras have such a timeless design. The silhouette is pure professionalism and digital power. Therefore, I find them to be the single most attractive modern camera, barring Leicas.
Thanks a lot for this superb and instructive video.
When considering an update you may think of including one r more Alpa cameras, and the Olympus XA (you mentioned it but didn’t show it) and the Nikonos III, and the Contax G2 (both silver and black) and the Leicaflex and the last film Leica R, and the X-Pan, and the Fuji 617, …
absolutely right about the Fuji x-pro3