Chinon's aperture-priority K-mount SLR — the CE-3 Memotron, electronic, 1978.
The Chinon CE-3 was a 35mm film SLR made from 1978 by the Japanese maker Chinon, which built K-mount bodies at accessible prices. Often badged CE-3 Memotron, it belonged to Chinon's electronic aperture-priority line and adopted the Pentax K bayonet, giving it access to the wide range of K-mount lenses.
It is a single-lens-reflex camera for 35mm film using the Pentax K mount. The CE-3 offered aperture-priority automatic exposure alongside manual control, with TTL metering and an electronically controlled focal-plane shutter. As an electronic body it relies on battery power for its shutter timing and metering.
It suits students and general users who want K-mount compatibility with aperture-priority automation at a lower cost than the equivalent Pentax bodies. Handling is conventional for a late-1970s SLR, and the K mount means lenses remain easy to source today.
On the used market the CE-3 is affordable and its K-mount lens support is a practical advantage. Check the foam light seals and mirror-damper foam for perishing, confirm the electronic shutter fires cleanly at all speeds, and test the meter with a fresh battery, since the body will not operate without power. Inspect film advance, rewind and the focusing screen, and note Chinon service support is limited today.