Canon A1 Reviews

★★★★★
4.7 / 5
92% of users recommend this
  • Photograph Quality

  • Features

  • Ease of Use

  • Value For Money

Media Gallery for Canon A1

B00006H1SD.02.THUMBZZZ.jpg
item1137.jpg
large_1563.jpg
thumb_1563.jpg
1563.jpg
B00016QMDW.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg
B00016QMDW.01.TZZZZZZZ.jpg
B00006H1SD.01.MZZZZZZZ.jpg
B00006H1SD.02.TZZZZZZZ.jpg
B00006H1SD.02.MZZZZZZZ.jpg
1563.jpg

Latest Reviews

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 03/01/2011

“I bought my A1 in 1982, and it was a superb choice....”

I bought my A1 in 1982, and it was a superb choice. The quality of my photos won me many a prize at our local Agricultural Show. Having my aperture and speed displayed in the viewfinder allowed me to compose without moving from the subject. Adding exchangeable lenses expanded my subject choice in natural history shots. I still use my A1, but have added a Rebel and a D60 (with Image Stabilizer on my bigger lenses) for added performance. W Campbell Clarke...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 07/12/2009

“I started out with digital, but I picked this camera...”

I started out with digital, but I picked this camera up recently and haven't stopped using it. There is just something about this camera - maybe an intangible quality - that makes me want to use it. It is very well built, feels sturdy in my hands, and is, in my opinion, the most aesthetically beautiful camera I've ever seen. If you don't have one, get one! Make sure you buy one that has been serviced. I got mine from eBay seller canaseries and it has performed flawlessly. I think he still sells...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 12/09/2009

“I bought the first A-1 available in Houston Texas. ...”

I bought the first A-1 available in Houston Texas. This camera was the first all electronic camera and caused a new generation of SLR cameras with features we all take for granted today like information in the viewfinder and an array of automatic modes -- Program, aperture priority, shutter priority, etc. I still have it and it still works great. I rarely shoot film anymore, but it does the job when I do. ...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 21/07/2009

“This canon a1 camera is over 20 years old ! ”

This canon a1 camera is over 20 years old ! I believe that it was the first truly automatic camera on the market. It came with the 50mm 1:1.4 lens. It has served me well, and as a Marine Surveyor, of ships, oil rigs etc. etc. it has travelled the world. Including the Jungles of Borneo. What I still like about this camera is the simplicity of use in any condition. This is an old camera, I am an elderley man, I am a great fan of canon, but unfortunately the next camera I purchase will be the FUJI...

Read full review
Report this review

jjames1274

Reviews written: 1

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 09/06/2009

“i have had the Canon A1 camera since 1976 and i still...”

i have had the Canon A1 camera since 1976 and i still have the camera with sppedlite 199a and also motor drive that lets the camera do five frames a second. also able to take a picture over a picture. also have 50mm and 135mm. have other cameras but i still prefer this because of flexability ...

Read full review
Report this review

PopsPhotos

Reviews written: 1

Canon A1
★★★★☆

Written on: 04/06/2009

“I, just last week, traded a framed, matted print from...”

I, just last week, traded a framed, matted print from my gallery for an A-1. I made the trade because I wanted something of quality which would take multiple exposures. I have used Canon in the past, so assumed it would be a rugged, reliable camera. I'm not very disappointed. The lens is stuck, so I can't get it off. I took a roll of film with it Thursday and I'm pleased with the results. I purposely pushed the macro and depth of field into marginal results and got exactly what I expected,...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★☆☆

Written on: 13/04/2009

“I bought a Cannon A1 in 1982 brand new when I was 17...”

I bought a Cannon A1 in 1982 brand new when I was 17 the price was £320.00.The best parts of the camera was viewfider which showed aperture and shutter flash reader and programmed modes.I also bought a cannon 166 speedlight for £99.00 which was dedicated.The camera was an absolute classic but when I bought a Cannon EOS RT I realise how much the A1 Was Limited in features handling and quality. For The time when the A1 came out it was an icon but the Cannon cameras available now 2009 are...

Read full review
Report this review

FD nut

Reviews written: 3

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 13/02/2009

“I bought my Canon A1 in 1992 secondhand for £120 and...”

I bought my Canon A1 in 1992 secondhand for £120 and it still works perfectly, and has never been repaired or serviced, nor let me down. With some TLC I expect it to last a good few more years yet. Some may say film is expensive, but if you surf the net good deals are out there. As good as any 35mm camera I've used. The only bad point is no mirror lock up....

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 16/12/2008

“This was a ground breaker in its day, sort of like the...”

This was a ground breaker in its day, sort of like the first EOS Rebel DSLR which broke the mold for entry DSLRs, the A-1 broke the mold for entry SLRs by introducing an affordable auto exposure. I personally feel this is much more of a camera then the modern DSLR equivalent (say 450D) which are plastic replicas. The A-1 evokes the days of the newspaper photographer. I brought mine second hand a decade ago. In fact it was older than my Pentax SE which I also still have. The SE I brought new,...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 04/12/2008

“I find this a very special stuff for me. Now I work...”

I find this a very special stuff for me. Now I work with my eos 30d and 5D... but usually I pick up my old A1 with some black and white film and just enjoy it, I love it. Digital ones are awesome but A1 35 mm film camera has something very special, maybe romantic, and different. Anyway it works great. No problem after 25 years of use. My father bought this camera when I was a child. At eleven years old I begun to use it and thanks to my father and this camera I felt in love with photography....

Read full review
Report this review
See next 10 reviews Showing 1 - 10 of 37 Reviews
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 30/11/2008

“This is actually one of my favourite 35mm cameras...”

This is actually one of my favourite 35mm cameras because it allows many of the virtues of today's electronic cameras in a circa 1978 more well constructed body. The exposure is extremely accurate for most shooting situations and the ability to use a standard screw in shutter release is welcome. I would recommend this camera with a few caveats. If the shutter squeaks, have the mirror lubricated. Many older cameras need shutter lubrication and new seals so a trip to a trusted repair shop is recommended....

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 23/09/2008

“Best over-all full mode 35 mm camera. Cameras like the...”

Best over-all full mode 35 mm camera. Cameras like the F-1 are superior in quality construction, but not in features. In any case, after nearly 30 years, the A-1 speaks for itself. ...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 01/09/2008

“I Have recently bought the Canon A1 off ebay and in my...”

I Have recently bought the Canon A1 off ebay and in my opinon the best slr around, and I frequently use it in program mode, great results! Fantastic camera! Easy to use! great features! wide range of lenses! A+++...

Read full review
Report this review

thewood

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 05/08/2008

“Sorry folks, just knowing how to pressing the shutter...”

Sorry folks, just knowing how to pressing the shutter doesn't make you a better photographer or gives you the ability to take any better photos. If this is you, don ' t waist your money on this quality camera, buy a disposable and be done with it....

Read full review

Desertpete01's response to 388963_thewood's Review

Written on: 02/08/2010

I found this review not helpful because...the general comments segment does not address anything pertaining specifically to this camera. It's a commentary on certain people, not on any camera. Pointless.

Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 17/07/2008

“The feel ,touch, looks, ease of use,and the results in...”

The feel ,touch, looks, ease of use,and the results in the form of near perfect pictures on every shot !...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 12/07/2008

“I had the A1 CANON WITH 70 to 210 canon lens and 50m...”

I had the A1 CANON WITH 70 to 210 canon lens and 50m lens suburb results...........

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 09/04/2008

“I used an A1 until poor eyesight forced me to change...”

I used an A1 until poor eyesight forced me to change to autofocus or i would still be using it today...

Read full review

Berni7's response to Guest's Review

Written on: 20/05/2008

I've still got my A1 and even after 9 years with little or no use it came out of the bag and worked fine. I have always been impressed with it and the cameras they make these days are certainly no match for the quality even if their picture taking capabilities are a match
<br/>
<br/>I couldn't believe that my Nikon D50 didn't have full Apature and Shutter Priority like my old A1.
<br/>
<br/>I'm looking forward to using it more for slides in the next few months.

Report this review

beautybear

Reviews written: 48

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 09/04/2008

“The Canon A1 was my first 35mm SLR, I had the AE-1...”

The Canon A1 was my first 35mm SLR, I had the AE-1 Program which meant all I had to do was focus and shoot. The camera was amazing, I wish now I had kept it. The controls were really easy to use and the pictures were the clearest sharpest images I've ever seen. The control wheel on the top of the camera allowed selection of Full Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority Or Full Manual. The film advance lever worked smoothly and I could use ANY ASA Film from 12 to 3200. A 'Stop-Down' leaver allowed...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 22/03/2008

“As for the review i am sure if the person doesn't...”

As for the review i am sure if the person doesn't consider a Canon A-1 the hype or the best 35mm slr for its age or ever, then i am sure tescos has a point and shoot suited just for them! and cheap enuf to replace , and thanks to digital many good quality lenses and mint condition canon A series are now affordable and available due to persons changing to an "easier" "faster" "complicated electronic digital" cameras ...

Read full review
Report this review

Sooprman44

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 12/03/2008

“What a camera ! ! ! I have two of the Canon A1. One...”

What a camera ! ! ! I have two of the Canon A1. One was purchased by my Grandfather in the early 80's. The other by my father around the same time. I have since inherited both of them. I also have several of the AE-1's. Three to be exact. Thank god they both purchased a large assortment of lenses as well. Got them too. All of my Canon cameras take beautiful photographs. They are not as rugged as my old Honeywell Pentax Spotmatic, But that one was made in the 60's and it still works like a champ...

Read full review
Report this review
See next 10 reviews Showing 11 - 20 of 37 Reviews

Billy Moffet

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 02/03/2008

“I have had my Canon A1 for around 25 years I have...”

I have had my Canon A1 for around 25 years I have always loved using it and it has never let me down. When I purchased it, it was expensive and as an amateur I couldn't really justify the cost. Now 25 years later the initial outlay is justified at around £0.60 per year. You can't even buy a decent newspaper for that! A classic that is still going strong and I prefer the A1 to my digital....

Read full review
Report this review

bds1958

Reviews written: 1

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 23/02/2008

“Had mine for over 20 years now. ”

Had mine for over 20 years now. Brilliant pictures. Just upgraded to EOS 400D and look back at my A-1 with fond memories. ...

Read full review
Report this review
Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 16/01/2008

“love the Canon A1 camera so so reliable its like an...”

love the Canon A1 camera so so reliable its like an old friend who goes everywhere with me....

Read full review
Report this review

jmrackowe

Reviews written: 12

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 15/06/2007

“The Canon A1 is a superb conventional 35mm camera.”

The Canon A1 is a superb conventional 35mm camera....

Read full review
Report this review

vannbaker

Reviews written: 1

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 03/11/2006

“I have taken thousands of photographs with my Canon...”

I have taken thousands of photographs with my Canon A1s, with films ranging from Kodachrome 25 and 64 to medium and high speed color print film as well as a range of black/white film. The camera has a great feel and balance, and has full manual control for virtually any type of subject matter, from macro photography using bellows or experimental night photography, or "Program" mode when I just want to focus and shoot. My favorite lens is the Canon 35-70 FD lens, it's not too long or too short,...

Read full review
Report this review

Stephen Anthony

Reviews written: 1

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 19/05/2006

“Starting last year I decided to get back into...”

Starting last year I decided to get back into photography after leaving it alone for 20 years, so I joined a local club and blended into the background and watched and learned. I purchased a couple of Nikon autofocus SLR's (F55 & F65), but the results were disappointing, then I spotted a Canon A1 on Ebay and took a risk and purchased it for £45. Also included in the sale was a Canon 28mm f2.8 wide angle lens. This combination and the amazing Fujichrome Velvia 50 slide film this year won me...

Read full review

Kriptone's response to Stephen Anthony's Review

Written on: 27/05/2006

I have both (A1 and T90) and while the A1 is superb the T90 is out of this world and definitely superior in terms of ergonomics, performance and specification. I also have a number of lenses: 24mm, 50mm. 28-200mm, 70-210mm and two 2x converters plus dedicated flash (300TL, works with A1 and T90). However have recently gone digital so am looking to sell my 35mm equipment.If you can persuade the wife it really IS a good idea, would you be interested???

Report this review

Ieuanfawr

Reviews written: 67

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 17/05/2006

“The Canon A1 35mm SLR is a classic camera, surpassed...”

The Canon A1 35mm SLR is a classic camera, surpassed only by the F1.

I have had mine since about 1980, and have four lenses: 2 zooms and two fixed focal length. I also have the 199 Speedlight which is very powerful, and will work with lenses as wide as 24mm. I did have the motor drive (now sold) which was quite remarkable. It would consume 36 frames of film in about 5 secs, and the batteries didn't last much longer. The Speedlight could keep up for bursts of 4 or 5 frames before needing...

Read full review

Kriptone's response to Ieuanfawr's Review

Written on: 27/05/2006

While I agree that the A1 is a superb camera I have to take issue with your comment about it only being surpassed by the F1. What about the T90?? I have both (A1 and T90) and the T90 is definitely superior in terms of ergonomics, performance and specification. I also have a number of lenses: 24mm, 50mm. 28-200mm, 70-210mm and two 2x converters plus dedicated flash (300TL, works with A1 and T90). However have recently gone digital so am looking to sell my 35mm equipment. Interested???

Ieuanfawr's response to Ieuanfawr's Review

Written on: 30/05/2006

I have to take issue with your comment about it only being surpassed by the F1. What about the T90??
True, it was outstanding, not least with 1/125th sec flash sync, but sadly it was only on sale for about a year and never caught on with the pros. It was bit like BetaMax VCRs. Technically excellent but never took off commercially.
However have recently gone digital so am looking to sell my 35mm equipment. Interested???
Likewise!
Meanwhile, I see Canon have halted development of film cameras. :(
http://news.com.com/Canon+to+halt+development+of+film+cameras/2100-1041_3-6076876.html?tag=nefd.top

Report this review

Andyg009

Canon A1
★★★★☆

Written on: 05/12/2005

“I have had my Canon A1 35mm SLR camera for 25 years....”

I have had my Canon A1 35mm SLR camera for 25 years. It is a good camera, and I have taken many good pictures.

I have considered buying a second one....

Read full review
Report this review

Chris Orwell

Reviews written: 2

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 31/10/2005

“I have been using a Canon A1 camera for my coursework...”

I have been using a Canon A1 camera for my coursework on photography at college. It has never let me down once and the last owner used it for 15 years very regularly and never had any problems....

Read full review
Report this review

steve marino

Reviews written: 1

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 08/09/2005

“The Canon A1 SLR may be the best manual focus camera...”

The Canon A1 SLR may be the best manual focus camera ever made. It had features that were way ahead of its time, like the LED readout in the viewfinder, that shows aperture and shutter speed, and the ability to change both with just one knob on the top of the camera. The 'snick' of the shutter is a great sound. It can take beautiful images, and is compatible with many, many great FD lenses. With a power winder, it can be focused without taking your eye from the viewfinder. A fine piece of engineering...

Read full review
Report this review
See next 10 reviews Showing 21 - 30 of 37 Reviews

jcollins30

Reviews written: 2

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 13/05/2004

“When my Canon A1 35mm SLR camera appeared to give up...”

When my Canon A1 35mm SLR camera appeared to give up the ghost I put it in a cupboard and forgot about it. That was 2 years ago. I recently got the photography bug again and started to scan the net for inspiration on what camera (digital I suppose) to buy. low and behold all this praise for the antique and humble A1!. Mine is now being serviced and I hope to carry on using it for a few more years with renewed enthusiasm....

Read full review

188987_Afjwa's response to jcollins30's Review

Written on: 12/04/2005

I've always been sorry that mine was stolen and that I didn't replace it. My current Canon EOS A2E is a wonderful camera, but my old A1 was just great. You're lucky to have your A1!

Nickybloch's response to jcollins30's Review

Written on: 11/08/2005

Help my Canon A1 needs repair!!
<br>I live in Northern Ireland. Anywhere in UK would be fine!
<br>Any ideas??
<br>Message date: 11/8/2005

Ieuanfawr's response to jcollins30's Review

Written on: 17/05/2006

Nip over to central Liverpool - http://www.newton-ellis.co.uk/, Newton and Ellis, 29 Cheapside, Liverpool L2 2DY, Tel: 0151 236 1391.

Report this review

wannsee

Reviews written: 1

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 03/04/2004

“A EOS10D, EOS 5 and a T90 before that my Canon A1 was...”

A EOS10D, EOS 5 and a T90 before that my Canon A1 was not getting any use. Then just for fun I put a roll through the A1 35mm SLR Cameras!!
All of a sudden I became a photographer again, yes the A1 is my main camera again !!! So if you can get one or even 2 it will never let you down and maybe your photography will even improve !!...

Read full review
Report this review

basebleed

Reviews written: 1

Canon A1
★★★★☆

Written on: 10/11/2003

“I purchased a Canon A1 this summer when I was...”

I purchased a Canon A1 this summer when I was deploying to Iraq with the U.S. Army. I Have an EOS Rebel 2000, but on previous trips to the desert I have seen Auto Focus systems fail because of sand and rough conditions. I don't agree that this is a delicate camera. it survived a 300 mile road march being bounced around in a humvee. The sand was terrible and we hit bumps that bounced my head off the ceiling. The camera was being stored in a .50 cal ammo can and must have taken a good pounding. It...

Read full review
Report this review

oniko

Reviews written: 35

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 08/09/2003

“The Cannon A1 is a great camera for general...”

The Cannon A1 is a great camera for general photography.you have AV for landscapes. TV for sports and movement. full manual that you can see and control in the viewfinder. as well as programme that your pet cat could use. it uses the same lenses that the F1N and AE-1 use, and look how many of those cameras are still giving great service.
its able to take a huge range of cheap s/hand lens and runs on a cheap 6 volt battery.
it has metal in the body and guts of it, not lots and lots of plastic...

Read full review

Oniko's response to oniko's Review

Written on: 09/10/2003

oniko here,i have just brought a second s/hand body to go with my first one.
<br>
<br>its nice to be able to read your exposures in low light with its red lcd's.

Report this review

Manje Richardson.

Canon A1
★★☆☆☆

Written on: 24/06/2003

“I used an A-1 years ago. I remember at that time...”

I used an A-1 years ago. I remember at that time Canon was still marketing its clumsy two-handed breechlock mount system as 'superior'. But when EOS arrived, Canon immediately dropped the breech ring for a bayonet lock like of its competitors! Back in the late 1970s this was a modern camera, but today there are more modern systems on the market that provide more shooting options. Because it's long since been discontinued, only used cameras and lenses are available. Canon dropped all bodies and lenses...

Read full review

118042_Brooke Willson.'s response to 110397_Manje Richardson.'s Review

Written on: 23/07/2003

I was never crazy about the A-1, but this reviewer's comments about the Canon breechlock are completely off base. It was never a "two-handed" system: when the lens was mounted on the camera, the locking ring turned by itself to ensure the lens didn't fall off. One then tightened the ring to snug. The genius of the breechlock was that it was the only quick-mount that adjusted for wear. To take the lens off, one grasped the ring, turned, and removed the lens. Used breechlock lenses are still priced higher than bayonets.
<br>
<br>Thousands of loyal Canon users like myself were so appalled when Canon switched to the cheap and awful "bayonet" system that we switched to other cameras. I regret having done that: my F1n is still the best 35mm camera I've ever used (I've owned Nikon, Pentax, and Olympus), and the lenses as good or better than any.
<br>

Gary Land.'s response to 110397_Manje Richardson.'s Review

Written on: 30/07/2003

This review is totally off base and misleading to someone not familiar with the legendary Canon A-1. I think that the fact that a camera introduced over 25 years ago is still being widely used and written about today is enough contradictory evidence to show that the reviewer’s opinion is certainly not that of people that really know photography and more specifically the Canon A-1. The reviewer states that he “used an A-1 years ago” which is a hint that the recently written review is not based off sound data. I still have and use an A-1 that I purchased in 1979. My remarks about the A-1 are based off 24 years of using these cameras.
<br>
<br>The reviewer speaks of it’s “clumsy two-handed breech lock mount system”. First, I have never had to use two hands. Second, so what if it did take two hands? Why is this even an issue? It takes all of about 5 seconds to change a lens. The reviewer states that the cloth shutter tends to stick at times. I have four A-1’s and I have never had a problem with the shutter sticking, not even the one that is 24 years old, and the “squeal” the author refers to is simply a result of lack of lubrication. Most any moving part needs lubrication from time to time if it is expected to continue to give good service. As far as broke or taped battery doors, I have never had a problem with this either. This problem is a result of rough handling by owners and not a flaw of the camera. I have no idea what the reviewer means by “the circuitry is fairly delicate – these cameras are easily damaged by use of certain flash guns.” The reviewer fails to state what he bases this statement on. However, I have never known of anyone having a problem of this type with an A-1. The reviewer lists the top shutter speed of 1/1000 as a bad point. This is really reaching to try to find something negative with this camera. It would be a really rare situation where 1/1000 would be too slow of a shutter speed. I doubt that the average photographer would ever have a need for a faster shutter speed. The reviewer states the camera is totally dependant on batteries as if this was something unique to the A-1. What modern camera is not dependant on batteries?
<br>
<br>The reviewer ends the review by saying “because of these issues I would not recommend this camera.” However, the reviewer has not presented any legitimate reasons for not recommending it. This person’s review should be discounted either due to lack of knowledge of the camera or due to some agenda other than unbiased advise to people interested in a good camera. I have used Canon A-1’s for over 24 years and I would rate this camera a 10 out of 10 in all areas for what it is designed for. These cameras can be bought today for reasonable prices and there are an unlimited supply of lens and accessories readily available. Most shutter squeal and light seal issues can be fixed for a minimal fee. Buy an A-1 and you will see why it is still being used and discussed 25 years after its introduction.
<br>

123341_Ray Mancuso.'s response to 110397_Manje Richardson.'s Review

Written on: 21/08/2003

Having used both new and old Canon systems I don't share the critics view of the alledged qualities of the breechlock mount or the A-1 for that matter. The old cloth shutter on this camera has a lousy flash sync speed and ruined many a outdoor flash photo for me before I switched to newer equipment. The breechlock is a solution to a problem that never existed - it does take two separate hand movements to operate, and mount/flange wear in real life isn't a problem to anyone using a camera with a stainless or plated metal mount unless they're hanging unsupported megatelephotos off it. Bottom line - if you buy the A1 you're buying a discontinued model with discontinued lenses and no parts support from the manufacturer.

Phil J's response to 110397_Manje Richardson.'s Review

Written on: 21/12/2003

What rot! The A1, granted, is an old camera, and is supassed by many modern equivelents. However, it's my thinking that this review was submitted by someone who had only ever used auto-everything cameras, and don't know the history, enginuity and great following of the Canon marque. The breech locking lenses are great, one-handed and quick changing. Top shutter speed of 1/1000 - so what? It's fast enough for most people, or Canon would have produced higher speeds for the camera; they spent a large amount of money on making the A1 and AE1 for a specific market, so, if you want faster speeds, look at another camera. The infamous "squeek" is a problem, but is easily remedied by a trip to your local camera repair man. As for the comment about you buying a discontinued camera, with no parts or support from the company, it doesn't matter. I have found that independent specialists have more knowledge of a product that the people that make it: because it's thier business to do so.
<br>
<br>In sumation: If you want a reliable, dependable rugged camera, and don't mind forgoing modern trappings such as multi-segment metering and autofocus, then buy a Canon A1. Cheaper than its contemories (OM2/3, Nikon F2 etc) then you will not regret it. They are a great camera that will certaily outlast thier modern conterparts.

Roadkilltl's response to 110397_Manje Richardson.'s Review

Written on: 27/04/2004

I dont agree with this review at all! I have been using this model camera for many years and my father used it for many years before that.
<br>
<br>READERS BEWARE! This really is an EXCELLENT CAMERA!!! It is a bargain today and you can find a lot of used equipment that is in good shape. Just the fact that you can find 25 year-old equipment still in mint shape means that people really thought this camera was excellent and worth keeping in good shape!

Cbrmac's response to 110397_Manje Richardson.'s Review

Written on: 05/07/2004

Absolute rubbish, the Canon A1 is one of the finest Canons ever made short of the F-1 shutter noise due to lack of servicing, like all mechanical parts require lubricating, after twenty plus years still going strong, sadly some so called photographers can't take pics unless using 4,000 sec shutter speeds, 1,000 asa with a f1.2 lens :-)

Alun Jenner's response to 110397_Manje Richardson.'s Review

Written on: 31/07/2004

I must disagree with the reviewer's comments. I bought a Canon A-1 in 1984. It is still in mint condition. At the time it's reviews were outstanding. In my view it's build quality is not far behind my Olympus E-1. Considering the advances since then this is an outstanding achievement. The A-1 is a timeless classic!

Mistyish's response to 110397_Manje Richardson.'s Review

Written on: 30/08/2008

I totally disagree with the reviewer. In fact the A1 is a far robust camera than many of its competitors of the time. I still use my own and it has never needed any repairs. My daughter who is 11 years old has recently taken some very good photographs. The A1 like the Nikon FE2, Contax RTS2 etc are fantastic tools for creating great photographs as many photographers the world over have proved.

Report this review

john willick.

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 04/08/2002

“I love the Canon A1 camera too, I've taken some...”

I love the Canon A1 camera too, I've taken some amazing pictures with it. ...

Read full review

43096_Gavin.'s response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 11/10/2002

The fact that canon changed the lens mount (to the EF system) isn't really a bad point. It means there is a huge supply of fantastic lenses out there at low prices. I certainly agree that the A1 is a fantastic camera!!

64854_Jaye.'s response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 13/01/2003

This is a spectacular camera. With quality features. A seasoned marvel, used by photographers of many levels. I must say I love A1 also

Lasse.'s response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 18/01/2003

Hello! What is a fair price for a used A1? I´m very new to photographing: How does the blitz function, when it isn't built in?

67892_Woolfie.'s response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 25/01/2003

I have an A1 and have always been happy with it. I have always used Canons. My A1 is now experiencing a 'zippp' noise when the shutter is released. I understand this is fairly common, and I seem to recall having the same problem with my old AE-1. Whats the problems and how do I fix it?

68569_Jaye.'s response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 28/01/2003

I believe that that noise you are hearing is the infamous Canon squeak. I heard tht noise on a site that specializes in fixing that problem. It is due to the drying out of certain areas in the camera. It can be repaired by some camera shops, where they re lubricate the mirror area. If you search Canon A-1 sites you can also find info on how to do it yourself. But professional application is best in my opinion. This is a problem with Canon's A-series cameras.

116241_Bob.'s response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 16/07/2003

My battery is dead and I can't figure out how to replace it! I too love my A1 and have had it for years. But I've never changed the battery, and now I don't know how. Help!

Tahir Alavi's response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 26/09/2003

I have an A-1 sinse 1980. Superb camera.
<br>The battery is replaced from the front by sliding open the lock besides the lens in front and repalacing the single cell ....perhaps of C series.
<br>Dr. Tahir Alavi

Zihodes's response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 15/01/2005

I purchased an A1 the minute it was available the summer of 1978, at Ferrari Camera in Boston. I haven't used it for years, but would like to resurrect it. Does anyone know the battery type used in the camera - I took the last one out and apparently threw it away some time ago.

Ieuanfawr's response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 17/05/2006

The battery is a 6v PX28. Any decent photographic dealer will supply one.

360806_Krystia's response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 20/04/2008

My father gave me his A-1 with the original manual (thankfully). I've dusted it off and looking to somehow obtain a battery for it. I'm guessing I should take it in to a shop and have it professionally serviced/cleaned. Also interested in getting a flash attachment for it. If anyone knows of online suppliers for this camera, please inform. I have two other Canons but I realize the A-1 is one of the best cameras to get started with for serious hobbying.

Ieuanfawr's response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 29/04/2008

After almost 30 years of ownership, I've sold my A1 on Fleabay. I had to accept I wasn't using it anymore, and my dream of a digital back plate wasn't going to happen.
<br/>
<br/>There was some bronzing on the top corners, but the shutter worked quietly as it did when new. It had been professionally serviced many times to ensure accurate metering and all the electronics and mechanicals were working perfectly.
<br/>
<br/>I also sold a 199A Speedlite and four FD lenses, two fixed focus, two zooms. All were in good working order, hardly mark on them despite years of use.
<br/>
<br/>The price was about what I'd been offered in a local photographic shop - not much in other words.
<br/>
<br/>The A1 is dead, long live the A1!

371903_Jdevorak's response to 31801_john willick.'s Review

Written on: 06/06/2008

I just bought an A-1 online and when I pressed the shutter release button the shutter got stuck open. Does anyone know what to do to fix it or did buy a faulty product?
<br/>

Report this review

JANE.

Canon A1
★★★★★

Written on: 09/01/2002

“THE CANON A1 IS THE BEST MANUAL SLR CAMERA EVER PRODUCED”

THE CANON A1 IS THE BEST MANUAL SLR CAMERA EVER PRODUCED...

Read full review

42550_Jon.'s response to 8960_JANE.'s Review

Written on: 08/10/2002

Hey- I like your review of the Canon A1, and I cannot agree more. I am a beginner to photography, and was given the A1 from my father as a beginners gift. I am looking for a flash that would best suit this camera and the pictures it takes. Please tell me which flash you would recommend for a beginner.
<br>
<br>Thanks-
<br>Jon

51049_Jaye.'s response to 8960_JANE.'s Review

Written on: 14/11/2002

Great review. I just recieved my Canon A1. I own a AE-1, which is a wonderful camera. I love it, and the picture quality is "superb". I am a Nikon_guy, who is falling for Canons, hmmmm. I know that the A1, is got to be top of the line, which it is. A great camera.

Jm Xu.'s response to 8960_JANE.'s Review

Written on: 23/07/2003

In 1986 I bought my Canon A1. A1 is a nice camera. I used it for near 17 years, but it runs very well now. I love A1 for ever!

Ieuanfawr's response to 8960_JANE.'s Review

Written on: 17/05/2006

Ideally you need the 199 Speedlite, but I expect they're hard to find now.

Report this review
overview