Canon's budget TTL SLR — the TL, stopped-down CdS metering, FL mount, cloth shutter, 1968.
The Canon TL, introduced in 1968, was a simplified, lower-cost version of the FT QL within Canon's FL-mount SLR range. It offered through-the-lens metering in a more affordable body, positioning it as an entry-to-mid-range camera for photographers who wanted TTL metering without the top features of the FT.
As a 35mm SLR the TL used the Canon FL breech-lock bayonet and a cloth focal-plane shutter with a range typically to 1/500 plus bulb, a reduced top speed compared with the FT. It featured through-the-lens CdS metering using a stopped-down match-needle method, with manual exposure control. The CdS meter required a battery, while the mechanical shutter fired without power.
The TL suits students, beginners and users wanting an affordable manual SLR with TTL metering and access to FL and FD glass. Its stopped-down metering and simpler feature set make it a straightforward, deliberate camera, though the lower top shutter speed limits action work with fast film. It is a dependable, no-frills learning and general-purpose body.
On the used market, check the CdS TTL meter, which was designed for a 1.35V mercury cell; the discontinued PX625/625 battery means readings may be off without an adapter or recalibration. Test the cloth shutter for capping and accuracy, inspect for perished foam light seals, prism haze or desilvering, and confirm smooth advance and rewind. FL and FD lenses adapt to mirrorless bodies for continued use.