Canon's unique half-frame film camera — the Dial 35 with spring-motor drive and 28mm f/2.8 lens.
The Canon Dial 35 is a half-frame (18×24mm) 35mm film compact camera from Canon, released approximately 1963. Distinctive spring-motor advance mechanism — after winding the spring, the camera advances film automatically after each exposure. Approximately 72 exposures from a 36-exposure roll. Fixed lens — no interchangeable mount.
Half-frame (18×24mm) 35mm format. Wind-up spring motor film advance (no battery for advance). Fixed 28mm f/2.8 lens (approximately 40mm equivalent on half-frame). Manual exposure. At approximately 470g. Fixed lens — no interchangeable mount.
The Dial 35's spring motor winds the film transport mechanism — one winding cycle drives multiple frame advances automatically after each shutter release. The distinctive 'Dial' body features a rotating front lens/viewfinder section relative to the grip. The half-frame format yields 72 exposures from a standard 36-exposure roll.
On the used market the Canon Dial 35 is a distinctive vintage half-frame compact. Condition checks: spring motor operation (test winding and advance cycle), 28mm fixed lens element condition, shutter operation. Fixed lens — no interchangeable mount. Verify spring mechanism winds and advances smoothly.