Olympus OM-1
Introduced: 1972 Discontinued: 1979
Olympus OM-1 is the founding Olympus OM SLR — introduced 1972, in production through 1979. The OM-1 was a paradigm shift in 35mm SLR design: dramatically smaller and lighter than competing Nikon F2 / Canon F-1 / Pentax K1000 of its era, with a quieter shutter and a more compact lens system. Designer Yoshihisa Maitani's compact-pro design influenced subsequent SLR development across the industry.
Key features
- Olympus OM bayonet — Maitani's compact mount system
- Mechanical horizontal cloth shutter — 1s to 1/1000 + B
- Manual exposure only
- CdS center-weighted meter (battery-dependent)
- Battery-independent for shutter; battery for meter only
- Compact body — 510g; significantly smaller than competitors
Practical notes
- OM-1 bodies on used market: $200-450 working examples
- The CdS meter requires a 1.35V mercury battery (PX625 or equivalent — discontinued); use 1.4V zinc-air alternative or external meter
- Aperture is on the lens; shutter speed is on a ring around the lens mount (Maitani-distinctive layout)
Related cameras
- Olympus OM-2 — AE successor
- Olympus OM-4Ti — pro-grade titanium successor
- Pentax MX / Nikon FM — competitor compact mechanical SLRs