Canon FT QL (1966)

The Canon FTQL was released in March 1966, as such is 3 years older than me! I wish I was in such good condition! They were offered with a choice of three different lenses. The fist option was 50mm f1.8, (as seen here), a 50mm f1.4 and a 55mm f1.2 (not 58mm as Wiki suggests!). Only later was a “body only” option available. The fit is the FL, predecessor to the FD.

I’ve owned a Canon AE1 Programme before, and it’s easy to spot some of the early design markers – not least the prominent name above the lens. It’s the first SLR camera I have owned with the QL (Quick Load) system. I never quite trust them, although this Canon version does seem to be fine. Fuji also used a “easyload” system in some of their compacts, I always used to open the back up and locate the film myself! Back to the FT, It’s a standard layout. Shutter speed dial offers speeds from 1000th down to 1 sec, plus B. There is also an X for flash sync which is 60th. Within the dial is a “lift and set” inner dial for setting the DIN/ASA. I can’t see that even with my glasses on and had to put a second pair on like a watch maker!! When you can see it, it offers 25-2000 asa. Also on the top is the shutter release with a mechanical cable release socket included a lock for the shutter, frame counter, and the wind on lever. On the top of the prism is an assessor shoe, rather than a hot shoe. Then on the left hand side is the re-wind and a battery check.

On the base of the camera is a central tripod socket in line with the lens, the re-wind release, and the release catch for the door. The front of the camera has the self-timer, usual thing, but un-usually when pushing the same lever the other direction, i.e. towards the lens, it also serves as the depth of focus preview. There is also a PC socket for cabled flash – remember no “hot shoe”! Interestingly Canon also offered a “booster” for the exposure system, this plugs into the existing battery compartment! On the front is also perhaps the lightest touch “mirror up” I’ve ever come across, so easy and light!

What you can’t see from the photo’s is that it’s meter runs from a PX625 battery, in those days it was expecting a mercury cell that was 1.35v (now illegal to produce) modern PX625’s are usually alkaline and often 1.5v, this might cause the meter to read higher, risking under exposure. However I’d say that simply understating the asa when setting the calibration, i.e. setting the camera 100asa for FP4 at 125, would solve the issue. Alternatively just keep the needle just above the “o” rather than on it! If however you are using sunny 16 or using a handheld light meter you don’t even need a battery in!

Having said all that – only one thing left to do – load in a roll of FP4 and get out there and make some photo’s…..

Verdict: Although the camera is heavy (740g) it feels solid and handles well. The viewfinder is easy and clear. I enjoyed using it and for me it’s a keeper, in fact I’m looking out for a nice FL 35mm for it now! If you get the chance to own one, they are not expensive as cameras go, I’d happily recommend one!