Ricoh's autofocus compact — the FF-3 AF, fixed 35mm f/3.2, program AE, AA-powered.
The Ricoh FF-3 AF is an autofocus 35mm compact from the early 1980s, part of Ricoh's FF line of pocketable viewfinder cameras. It added autofocus to the series, reflecting the wider shift to automatic focusing in consumer compacts of that period. It was aimed at everyday users who wanted a simple camera that handled focus and exposure automatically.
Built for 35mm film, the FF-3 AF has a fixed 35mm f/3.2 Rikenon lens and a centre-spot autofocus system with focus lock. Exposure is programmed AE using a CdS meter. The camera has a built-in flash that the user activates manually rather than an automatic pop-up unit. It is powered by two AA cells.
The FF-3 AF suits general snapshot use, travel and beginners who want autofocus and automatic exposure without settings to manage. Its AA batteries are easy to source, which is a practical advantage for a camera of this age. Focus and exposure are handled by the camera, so it favours straightforward point-and-shoot use.
When inspecting a used FF-3 AF, confirm the autofocus drives the lens and locks on a subject rather than sitting at one distance, and check the lens for haze and fungus. Test the manual flash and the CdS meter's response, and make sure the AA battery contacts are clean and free of corrosion from past leaks. Check film advance and rewind, and verify the film-door light seals have not perished.