Bell & Howell Auto 35
Name/Title
Bell & Howell Auto 35Entry/Object ID
340Tags
InterestingDescription
The Bell & Howell Auto 35 is a notable example of the collaboration between American retailers and Japanese optical manufacturers during the late 1960s. Produced by Canon, the camera features a unique design where the rear element of the lens is fixed within the body while the front elements move for focusing. It operates as a shutter-priority automatic system, utilizing a selenium cell light meter surrounding the lens to regulate exposure without the need for a battery. Mechanically, the camera is distinguished by its bottom-mounted trigger-wind lever, a design choice intended to allow for faster film advancing without moving the camera away from the eye. Culturally, it represents the era's transition toward automation, offering a streamlined experience for casual photographers. While selenium meters can degrade over time, the camera's all-mechanical shutter and standard 35mm film compatibility ensure it remains a functional study in mid-century consumer engineering.Category
Camera, 35mm Film, Viewfinder, Project Analog
Media Type