Canon's legendary professional film SLR — the F-1 that competed with Nikon F for professional dominance.
The Canon F-1 launched in 1971 as Canon's first truly professional film SLR — designed to compete directly with the Nikon F for the professional photographic market. It established Canon as a serious professional camera manufacturer.
Fully mechanical operation — works without batteries (meter requires battery). Titanium focal plane shutter from 1s to 1/2000s plus bulb. Interchangeable viewfinders and focusing screens. Canon FD mount — Canon's professional system.
35mm film. Canon FD mount. Fully mechanical titanium shutter. Interchangeable prisms and screens. Motor Drive MF available. 100% viewfinder coverage. Magnesium alloy body. The F-1 was Canon's statement of professional intent.
Available used at mid-range to professional prices. The New F-1 (1981) improved significantly. The F-1 established Canon as a professional camera brand. For Canon history collectors and film photography enthusiasts wanting Canon's first professional SLR.