[Canon] S I (Post-War Newest Model) | Film Cameras | Jan. 1946
The Canon S I camera is believed to have been produced in limited numbers, around 100 units, using parts stockpiled before and during World War II. During the war, the military supplier Seiki-Kogaku relocated to Yamanashi Prefecture due to worsening conditions. After Japan's defeat, the company faced challenges transporting its machinery back to Tokyo. A U.S. commanding officer, who appreciated cameras, arranged for military trucks to move the equipment to Seiki-Kogaku's main factory in Meguro. In gratitude, the company gifted him a Canon S I.
Type
35mm focal-plane shutter camera
Picture Size
24 x 36 mm
Normal Lens
Nikkor 50mm f/3.5 and others
Lens Mount
Dedicated bayonet mount with three inner lugs for interchangeable lenses
Shutter
Two-axis, horizontal-travel focal-plane shutter with cloth curtains. Lever-controlled dial for 1, 1/2, 1/4, and 1/8 sec., and single-axis rotating dial for Z, 1/20, 1/40, 1/60, 1/100, 1/200, and 1/500 sec.
Viewfinder
Coincidence rangefinder and separate reversed Galilean pop-up viewfinder. Focusing enabled with rotating gear (with stopper released).
Film Loading & Advance
After baseplate removal, drop-in bottom loading. Advances with camera-top knob.
Frame Counter
Manually set from 0 to 39 at the base of the camera-top rewind knob.
Film Rewind
Camera-top knob
Dimensions & Weight
136.5 x 69 x 30.5 mm, 700 g (with Nikkor 50mm f/3.5)