Canon AV-1: Classic Camera Review

The Canon AV-1 is a 35mm film SLR that was first released in 1979. While it closely resembles its famed older sibling, the 1976 AE-1, the AV-1 utilises aperture priority instead of shutter priority and lacks full manual controls. Although the AV-1 isn't as well-known and doesn't have the manual exposure options of the AE-1, its lower visibility can lead to great deals on auction sites and in the used camera market.

In this classic camera review, we will explore the history of the AV-1, its strengths and weaknesses, and provide you with all the information you'll need to decide if this camera is right for you.

A Brief History

Seiki Kogaku, which later became Canon, began developing rangefinder cameras in 1933 with the Kwanon prototype, inspired by the Leica II 35mm camera. In late 1946, they released the SII, which introduced a combined viewfinder and rangefinder system, departing from the Leica design while retaining a similar look to the Leica III.

In 1956, Canon moved away from the Leica II style and adopted a more contemporary design. The Canon VT, introduced that year, was the first Canon camera with a swing-open back for easy film loading, although it still used the Leica lens mount.

From 1961 to 1976, Canon partnered with Bell & Howell, with several Canon products sold in the U.S. under the Bell & Howell brand, including the Canon 7 Rangefinder, Canon EX-EE, and Canon TX.

In 1959, Canon developed the Canon R lens mount for SLR cameras and released their first SLR camera in the same year. This was followed by the introduction of the Canon FL lens mount in 1964. In 1971, the FD lens mount standard was introduced with the highly successful Canon F-1.

Canon's success continued throughout the 1970s with numerous popular camera releases, including the AE series and the AV-1 in 1979. Following the FD mount, Canon launched the EOS series in 1987, bringing autofocus capabilities to their later film cameras and DSLRs.

Features and specifications

Type	35mm focal-plane shutter SLR camera
Picture Size	24 x 36 mm
Kit Lens	Canon New FD 50mm f/1.8, New FD 50mm f/2 (Quick mount/demount type)
Lens Mount	FD mount
Shutter	Bulb, 2, 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000 sec. All speeds stepless and controlled electronically. Built-in self-timer (with adjustable delay and blinking LED).
Flash Sync	X-sync hot shoe.
Viewfinder	Fixed eye-level viewfinder. 0.87x magnification, 92% vertical coverage, 93% horizontal coverage. Split-image rangefinder focus screen. Exposure meter needle, shutter speed scale, overexposure and underexposure warnings, battery check index and camera-shake warning, and Flash-ready indicator.
Metering & Exposure Control	Aperture priority. Metering range at ISO 100 and f/1.4: EV 1 – 18. Film speed range from ISO 25 to 1600.
Power Source	One 4G-13 6 V mercury oxide battery or 4LR44 alkaline battery
Film Loading & Advance	Slotted take-up spool. Advances with camera-top lever’s 120 stroke (partial strokes enabled). Ready position at 30.
Frame Counter	Counts up. Resets automatically when camera back is opened.
Film Rewind	Camera-top crank
Dimensions & Weight	139 x 85 x 48 mm, 490 g

Aesthetics and Build Quality

The AV-1 features a classic design, equipped with all the characteristics a film newbie would enjoy; this is exemplified by its large dials and a chrome body. The AV-1 fits in well with any popular SLR from the 70's or 80's.

Constructed with a combination of metal and plastic, it feels solid and durable for an entry-level camera. The majority of the exterior is made from sturdy plastic, which is typical for cameras of its class. However, Canon cameras from this era are not weather-sealed, so users should avoid using them in rainy conditions.

While the AV-1 may not feel as refined or luxurious as higher-end cameras of its time, it remains pleasant to shoot with. It has a comparable feel to Olympus models like the OM-10 or OM-20.

Lens Selection

The FD mount, developed by Canon in March 1971, served as the standard for interchangeable lenses in Canon SLR cameras until the EOS series was introduced in 1987. The FD mount remained in use until the release of the Canon T60 in 1990, which marked the end of the FD system.

During its 21-year production run, Canon introduced 134 different FD lenses, ranging from 7.5mm to 1,200mm across seventeen fixed focal lengths and nineteen zoom ranges, making it one of the most extensive manual focus lens systems ever produced.

This makes the system very attractive to 35mm film photographers who are looking for high optical quality while not requiringauto focus.

Sample photos: Click Here

Layout and Controls

With user-friendly controls, Canon's AV-1 is perfect for people new to photography or those looking for an easy-to-use camera that retains some aesthetic control with the use of its aperture priority shooting mode.

There is very little to worry about when shooting with the AV-1. You set the ISO to match your chosen film with a dial on the left of the top plate. Users have the choice of bulb, flash, aperture priority, or auto mode, which is controlled with a dial next to the film advance lever.

Looking through the viewfinder, the shutter speed is indicated by a needle that moves as you adjust the aperture. Focusing is performed using a split prism, and all primary controls are conveniently located on the lens, making the shooting experience straightforward and easy to grasp quickly.

There is a fully automatic mode, but I found the 30th of a second shutter speed used a little slow for impromptu photos.

If you are familiar with other aperture priority cameras, such as the OM series (other than the OM-1), the Pentax MV-1, Yashica Electro 35, Chinon CA-4, then you will feel at home with the AV-1.

Click here for a full tutorial of the Canon AV-1

Reliability

The AV-1 is generally regarded as a reliable camera, thanks to the solid construction typical of Canon cameras from this era, making it well-suited for regular use. However, like any older camera, its reliability depends on its condition. Models that have been well-maintained or serviced recently are likely to perform to a higher standard than models that have been left unused for long periods of time.

If your AV-1 does encounter problems, there are plenty of online guides and user manuals that can assist with repairs. Given Canon’s popularity, finding replacement parts shouldn't be difficult. It's worth noting that due to the camera's affordability, purchasing a whole new body may make more financial sense than paying for repairs, which can lead to waste, especially when the camera isn't especially rare or sought-after.

Most cameras of the AV-1's age would benefit from a CLA (Clean, Lubricate, Adjust), but with a bit of care and regular use, they can remain reliable for many years.

Price

You can typically find a working Canon AV-1 for around £60-£100, depending on its condition and any included lenses. It's advisable to aim for the lower end of that range since there are more appealing options available around the £100 mark.

When shopping online, ensure you only purchase from highly-rated sellers on platforms like eBay, or consider buying from a reputable used camera shop that offers a warranty.

Before committing to an AV-1, consider exploring other cameras within a similar price range. For £50 to £100, you might also come across options like the Olympus OM-20, the Canon AE-1, Nikon EM, or Pentax K1000, which provide manual controls.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Canon AV-1 is a great option for people stepping into the world of film photography. With a wide range of sharp and affordable lenses and user-friendly controls, you can't go wrong with the AV-1 or any of its Canon relatives of the same era.

Be sure to shop around and compare options to find a camera that fits your needs. If you're just starting out, automatic shooting modes may appeal to you, but a camera offering manual settings can provide more room for growth in the future.