Canon's advanced multimode SLR — one of the first with shutter-priority and program auto exposure.
The Canon A-1 was released in 1978 as Canon's flagship multi-mode automatic exposure 35mm film SLR, featuring aperture-priority, shutter-priority, programmed auto, and manual modes. The first multi-mode AE 35mm SLR produced. Canon FD mount. At approximately 620g with battery.
Canon FD mount. Aperture-priority, shutter-priority, programmed AE, and manual exposure modes. TTL flash AE. FD mount interchangeable lenses. At approximately 620g. 35mm film.
The A-1 was Canon's groundbreaking achievement in camera automation: it was the first 35mm SLR to offer all four exposure modes in a single camera, establishing the template that modern cameras follow. The programmed AE mode automatically selected both aperture and shutter speed. TTL flash AE was also novel for its era.
On the used market the Canon A-1 is affordable as a classic multi-mode film SLR. Condition checks: all exposure modes function correctly, shutter speeds accurate, battery compartment, shutter squeal (common A-1 issue from drying shutter brake material). Canon FD mount — not compatible with EF lenses.