Catalogue information
The Canon AE -1 was a milestone in the history of SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras when it was introduced in 1976, because in this camera the mechanical parts were replaced by electronic parts for the first time to the utmost consequence, with the direct result that a much more compact and lighter camera body emerged that could be produced at a much lower cost. The AE-1 was also the first camera in the world in which applied microcomputer technology controlled automatic exposure (with shutter speed priority). But even more than the features of the device itself, there was the surprise at the price with which Canon launched its new product on the market. Where until that moment the price of a good automatic 35 mm reflex was about 1500 guilders, the AE-1 was offered for just under 1000 guilders. Partly because of this challenging price difference, more than 1 million AE-1 SLR cameras were sold in the first year. A Canon AE-1 should therefore not be missing in any serious camera collection.
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